Banjul, 26th June 2025: The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) is hosting a week-long internal validation workshop from 23rd to 29th June 2025, in Soma, Lower River Region. Supported by the EU-UNDP GREAT Initiative, the session brings together stakeholders to assess and finalise the IEC’s Strategic Plan for 2025–2029, a forward-looking document designed to strengthen institutional governance and guide all major electoral operations in the coming years.
In his remarks at the opening of the workshop, the IEC’s Vice Chairman Mr Joseph Colley stressed the critical role of long-term planning in the democratic process.
“This strategic planning process reaffirms the Commission’s commitment to excellence, professionalism, and service to the people of The Gambia,” he said, adding, “It reflects our shared vision to continuously strengthen electoral integrity and public trust in democratic processes.”
The new five-year strategy will serve as a foundation for upcoming electoral activities, including supplementary voter registration, presidential, National Assembly, and local government elections, as well as a potential constitutional referendum.
According to Pa Makan Khan, Director of Communications at the IEC, the strategic plan also highlights the Commission’s institutional priorities, including internal policy reforms and enhanced engagement with civil society, the media, security services, and political actors. He added that the initiative aims to provide a strategic direction for the Commission over the next five years, outlining its key priorities and objectives of guiding the effective management of the electoral process.
Alongside the strategic plan, Mr Khan informed that the Commission is seeking to validate several internal policies on finance, procurement, asset disposal, IT, and occupational health and safety.
Mr. James Monibah, Project Manager of the EU-UNDP GREAT Project, reaffirmed the international community’s support to Gambia’s electoral development:
“In The Gambia, UNDP has provided significant support to the IEC to strengthen the country’s electoral infrastructure and advance its democratic processes,” he said. “Between 2021 and 2023, UNDP refurbished and equipped several regional IEC offices, including those in Kanifing, Brikama, Kerewan, Mansakonko, and Basse, thereby enhancing the Commission’s operational efficiency and preparedness for future elections. UNDP’s support to the electoral cycle places strong emphasis on promoting human rights and ensuring gender equality at all levels of electoral engagement.”
Despite these developments, the Director of Communications shared that the IEC still faces challenges, particularly in financing, mobility, and addressing the spread of misinformation.
Notwithstanding, “the Commission remains committed to conducting free, fair, transparent and inclusive elections. It continues to leverage the support and cooperation of the stakeholders on the electoral process,” Mr. Khan assure.
As The Gambia enters a crucial phase in its democratic journey, the IEC’s roadmap, grounded in strategy, stakeholder collaboration, and international cooperation, will be key to ensuring credible, peaceful, and inclusive elections in 2026.
By Mahzouba Maya Faal
