Nyagen Alkalo Stamp Seizure Sparks Political Bias Concerns Amid Voter Registration

The recent withdrawal of the Nyagen Village in Central River region, Niani Constituency Alkalo’s official stamp during the ongoing supplementary voter registration exercise has sparked serious concerns of political interference, with civil society observers suggesting the move may be linked to perceived affiliation with the opposition.

The Government announced on April 9 that the stamp had been seized and placed under “secure custody,” citing concerns over its alleged misuse after the Alkalo reportedly entrusted it to his son. Authorities maintained that the decision was necessary to protect the integrity of the voter registration process.

However, during a press briefing held at the Gambia Participates office on April 11, 2026, findings from domestic election observers, including Gambia Participates and the Elections Watch Committee (EWC), point to a different narrative.

Observers Question Official Justification

Although the government did not provide detailed evidence of misuse, observers indicate there is no clear proof that the stamp was used to unlawfully register ineligible voters.

Instead, they argue that the action appears to be politically motivated.

“We have reliable information suggesting that the primary reason for the withdrawal of the stamp is linked to perceived political affiliation with the opposition,” the observers noted in a joint statement.

They further emphasised that entrusting village stamps to relatives is a common and accepted practice among Alkalolu (village heads), often due to age, literacy challenges, or administrative convenience.

Impact on Voter Registration

The seizure of the stamp has had immediate consequences for residents of Nyagen, particularly those who rely on Alkalo attestation as their only means of identification.

Under the Elections Act of 2025, eligible Gambians can register using a birth certificate, national ID, passport, or an attestation from an Alkalo or Seyfo (chief).

Without the stamp, many villagers are now unable to obtain the required attestation, effectively blocking their participation in the voter registration exercise.

Observers warn that this could lead to mass disenfranchisement, especially given the limited number of registration days in rural areas.

Allegations of Voter Suppression

Civil society groups have described the action as unjustified and potentially unconstitutional, warning that it could amount to voter suppression.

They argue that the move restricts citizens’ right to vote, may violate constitutional protections against political discrimination, and risks undermining the credibility of the electoral process.

“Public officials must not weaponise state authority in ways that undermine democratic participation, particularly against vulnerable rural populations,” the statement emphasised.

Calls for Immediate Action

Stakeholders are now calling on the government to: immediately return the Alkalo’s stamp, allow voter registration to proceed without obstruction, and address disputes through legal channels such as the Revising Courts. They also urged broader electoral reforms, including reducing reliance on attestation and improving access to national identification documents.

A Test for Electoral Integrity

As The Gambia prepares for upcoming elections, the situation in Nyagen is being closely watched as a test of the country’s commitment to free and fair elections.

Observers warn that any perception of political interference—especially in rural communities—could erode public trust in the electoral process.

Author: Fatou S. Sanyang

PC: AI-Generated