Former Vice President Dr Isatou Touray has made history after becoming the first female aspirant to receive formal acceptance from the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) to contest The Gambia’s December 5, 2026 presidential election.
Her acceptance marks a significant moment for women’s political representation in the country, as she prepares to join the presidential race as an independent candidate.
Dr Touray, who served as Vice President under President Adama Barrow from March 2019 until May 2022, submitted her nomination papers to the IEC on November 4, 2026.
Her nomination was initially subject to further verification, with the Commission requesting additional documentation, including proof of her secondary school education and other requirements.
Following the completion of the verification process, the IEC accepted her nomination, clearing the way for her to contest the December polls.
Her entry into the race is particularly significant given the longstanding underrepresentation of women in the country’s highest political office.
Although women have played important roles in national development, governance and political mobilisation, their participation in presidential contests has remained limited.
Dr Touray previously made history in 2016 when she became the first woman to seek the Gambian presidency. However, she subsequently withdrew from that race to support the coalition that eventually brought President Barrow to power.
Her return to the presidential contest, this time as an independent candidate, represents another milestone in her political journey.
During her nomination exercise at the IEC headquarters, Dr Touray said she was entering the race with humility, a sense of responsibility and a commitment to the Gambian people.
She also acknowledged her role in the Barrow administration, saying she would not distance herself from the government she served but accepted responsibility for both its achievements and shortcomings.
Among the issues she raised was the failure to deliver promised constitutional reforms following the 2016 political transition.
She has also emphasised the need for accountable leadership and development that improves the lives of ordinary Gambians, particularly young people, women, farmers and rural communities.
The December 5 presidential election will provide Dr Touray with an opportunity to present her vision to the electorate as she joins other qualified aspirants seeking the country’s highest office.
Her acceptance also brings renewed attention to women’s participation in political leadership and the importance of creating opportunities for women to compete for the highest public offices in the country.
