By Nelson Manneh
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has scheduled a by-election for April 26, 2025, to fill the vacant Half Die Ward council seat in Banjul after Momodou Bah, the National People’s Party (NPP) councillor, abandoned his position and disappeared abroad.
Bah, who won the 2023 election with 63.90% of the vote, reportedly left for Europe and failed to return. With no official excuse for his prolonged absence, the IEC declared his seat vacant, invoking Section 23 of the Local Government Act to initiate a fresh election.
The IEC has outlined the following key dates for the by-election:
- March 12: Nomination forms available at the IEC Banjul Regional Office.
- April 10-12: Official nomination period (8 a.m. – 4 p.m. daily).
- April 14-24: Campaign period for candidates.
- April 26: Election day.
Bah’s disappearance has created a political headache for the NPP, which must now defend a seat it won decisively against Ruggie Faal of the United Democratic Party (UDP) in 2023. Bah secured 661 votes, while Faal received 374 votes (36.10%).
His abrupt departure has triggered public criticism, with many questioning the commitment and accountability of elected officials. Some residents are calling for stricter regulations to prevent similar cases of abandonment in the future.
The IEC has assured the public that the by-election will be conducted fairly and transparently, encouraging eligible voters to actively participate in choosing a representative who will fulfill their mandate.
With the nomination period fast approaching, political parties are gearing up for what is expected to be a fiercely contested race to fill the vacant Half Die Ward seat.
