As Gambia prepares for its presidential election on December 5, 2026, and parliamentary elections on April 10, 2027, Dr. Mohamed Ibn Chambas, former Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), has stressed the importance of peaceful and inclusive elections. He made these remarks at an event organized by International IDEA in Kotu, where he served as an Eminent Person.
Dr. Chambas delivered a strong call for unity, peace, and inclusivity among Gambian stakeholders, including political leaders, civil society, and youth representatives. He emphasized that the supreme interest of the Gambian people must rise above partisan considerations. Dr. Chambas highlighted the need for stability and security, stating that the ordinary Gambian should be able to go about their activities without fear.
Recalling the success of previous electoral cycles, Dr. Chambas noted that presidential and assembly candidates signed a code of conduct to guide their behavior before, during, and after elections. He praised Gambian stakeholders for their commitment to peace, describing Gambia as a "Smiling Coast of Africa." Dr. Chambas also urged leaders to channel the energy of youth wings in political parties into constructive competition of ideas rather than confrontation.
Dr. Chambas emphasized the role of religious and civil society leaders in maintaining calm during tense moments, noting that polls consistently show Gambians place high trust in religious figures. He encouraged stakeholders to strengthen communication, particularly through social media, to engage young people with accurate information. Additionally, he called for improvements in the legal system to ensure electoral disputes are resolved efficiently and fairly.
Looking ahead to the elections, Dr. Chambas urged cooperation before, during, and after the polls to safeguard peace and democracy. He linked credible elections to broader national development goals, including poverty reduction and job creation for youth and women. Dr. Chambas concluded by stressing that prevention is always better, and that stakeholders should work together to prevent potential conflicts.
The event was organized by International IDEA as part of its project to promote peaceful, inclusive, and credible presidential and parliamentary elections in Gambia. Dr. Chambas's remarks are seen as crucial in the run-up to the elections, which represent a significant milestone in Gambia's democratic consolidation. His call for peaceful and inclusive elections has resonated with stakeholders across the country.
Gambia's upcoming elections are being closely watched by local and international observers, who are eager to see the country's continued progress in consolidating its democracy. With Dr. Chambas's urging, stakeholders are expected to work together to ensure that the elections are peaceful, inclusive, and credible. This, in turn, is expected to contribute to the country's broader development goals and stability.
Key points
- Dr. Mohamed Ibn Chambas calls for peaceful and inclusive elections in Gambia.
- The elections represent a significant milestone in Gambia's democratic consolidation.
- Dr. Chambas emphasizes the importance of stability, security, and cooperation among stakeholders.
