The National Democratic Party (NDP) has cautioned the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) against allowing political pressure, bias or external influence to determine its decision on the eligibility of its presidential candidate, Kebba Bojang, following questions reportedly raised over his secondary school qualifications.
In a statement dated November 10, the party urged the electoral body to handle the matter with fairness, transparency and professionalism, insisting that its flagbearer meets the requirements to contest the December 5 presidential election.
The NDP said the IEC must base its decision strictly on credible evidence, established procedures and the law, rather than pressure, rumours or political influence.
“The Commission must act strictly within the law, apply the same standards to all candidates and political parties, and base every decision on credible evidence and established procedures not pressure, rumour, bias or political influence,” the statement said.
The party acknowledged the IEC’s authority and responsibility to question and verify documents submitted during the nomination process, saying transparency and due diligence were necessary to maintain public confidence in democratic institutions.
However, it maintained that the academic records and supporting documents submitted on behalf of Mr. Bojang were genuine, accurate and capable of independent verification.
The NDP insisted that there had been no forgery and expressed confidence that a fair and objective assessment would establish the authenticity of the documents.
It also said there were no legitimate grounds for rejecting its flag bearer, adding that it remained optimistic he would appear on the ballot on December 5.
The party further warned that the IEC’s handling of the matter carried significant implications for public confidence in the electoral process, describing the commission’s impartiality as essential to preserving peace and stability in the country.
It urged the electoral body to ensure that any decision taken was lawful, defensible and clearly communicated to the public.
Meanwhile, the NDP called on its supporters and the general public to remain calm, avoid responding to provocation and refrain from spreading unverified information as the controversy continues.
The party said it remained committed to pursuing the matter through lawful and democratic means, maintaining that the final decision should be guided by evidence and the applicable law.
