By Sainabou Sambou
The National Youth Parliament (NYP) of The Gambia has marked a historic milestone with the conclusion of its first-ever constituency-based, nationwide election, a process hailed as a transformative moment for youth-led democracy in the country. The landmark event, which saw thousands of young Gambians participate in a transparent and inclusive electoral process, signals a bold step toward empowering the nation’s youth to shape their future.
At a press conference held at the NYP Secretariat in Kanifing on Wednesday, Abdoulie O. Bah, Clerk and Head of Administration at the NYP, described the election as a defining moment not only for the Parliament but also for youth leadership across The Gambia. “Today is historic,” Bah declared. “This is more than an election—it’s a power shift. Young people are no longer waiting for opportunities; they are creating them.”
For the first time in its history, the NYP abandoned closed-door congresses and indirect voting systems, opting instead for a constituency-based, paper ballot process that empowered young people in all 53 constituencies. The response was overwhelming: 23,111 young Gambians registered to vote, 176 nomination forms were issued, and 149 candidates were vetted and approved. Over three days, 10,378 youth—many of whom were first-time voters—cast their ballots, demonstrating unprecedented engagement.
Baboucarr Nyang, Chairperson of the NYP Election Committee, called the election a “national breakthrough” and a clear message that the era of youth exclusion in politics is over. Despite logistical hurdles, limited funding, and challenging terrain, the NYP Election Commission, supported by a network of dedicated young volunteers, ensured a peaceful and transparent process. Ballot materials were transported across unpaved roads to remote regions, and civic education efforts were driven by volunteers’ conviction and sense of duty, often without compensation.
The process was not without challenges. In Jarra East, tensions arose after the polls closed when a group attempted to disrupt the proceedings. The presiding officer, backed by the Gambia Police Force, swiftly restored order, allowing vote counting to resume transparently the next morning. In Wuli East, credible allegations of political interference prompted the NYP Petitions Panel to launch a review, with Nyang emphasizing the Commission’s commitment to impartiality. “No candidate is above the rules,” he asserted.
A notable concern was the gender disparity among candidates. Of the 146 approved candidates, only 23 were female, representing just 15% of the total, compared to the NYP’s current 47% female representation. “This is a wake-up call,” Nyang admitted. “We must do more to empower young women for leadership roles.” Despite this gap, the NYP’s structure ensures inclusivity, with reserved seats for women from all seven regions and two seats for persons with disabilities.
The electoral process received critical support from the Independent Electoral Commission, which trained NYP officers, and the Gambia Police Force, which ensured security. Development partners, including UNFPA, the European Union, and the Arts Academy, provided financial and logistical assistance. The official tally recorded 10,378 votes cast, with 43 ballots deemed invalid. In 39 constituencies analyzed, 6,042 votes were cast for 124 candidates—109 male and 15 female.
The newly elected youth parliamentarians, who will serve a three-year term, join a platform designed to amplify diverse voices and drive change. Nyang closed the press conference with a powerful message to Gambia’s youth: “This is your win, your platform, your moment. Let no one tell you to wait your turn. Our turn is now, and we are just getting started.”
The success of the 2025 NYP elections underscores Gambia’s growing commitment to inclusive, youth-driven governance, setting a precedent for democratic participation across the region. As these young leaders take their seats, the nation watches with anticipation, eager to see the impact of this historic milestone.
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