Publication:

Report of the African Union Election Observation Mission on the 9 April 2022, National Assembly Elections in the Republic of the Gambia.

The Republic of The Gambia held National Assembly Elections on 9 April 2022, marking the second such event since the 2016 political transition and following a peaceful and credible presidential election in December 2021. The African Union Election Observation Mission (AUEOM), comprising three core team members and 12 Short Term Observers (STOs), observed the elections from 3 to 12 April 2022. Led by H.E. Dr. Speciosa Wandira-Kazibwe, the mission assessed compliance with AU principles, international democratic standards, and The Gambia's electoral framework. The elections occurred amid delayed constitutional reforms and the pending Elections Bill but proceeded peacefully. Key findings highlighted gaps in the legal framework, including a lack of affirmative action for women and youth, disproportional constituency sizes, and the absence of boundary demarcation by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC). The voting system was simple and effective, though stakeholders debated replacing it with paper ballots for cost and diaspora participation reasons. A total of 246 candidates were nominated, with only 19 women, reflecting low female participation. The media landscape was open and free, enabling diverse discourse. Election Day was peaceful, transparent, and inclusive, with unrestricted access for observers and party agents. The AUEOM recommended passing the Elections Bill, advancing constitutional reforms, implementing quotas for women's participation, increasing inclusion of marginalized groups, addressing constituency disparities, and maintaining the efficient voting system. Overall, the elections were deemed peaceful, democratic, and consistent with national and international standards.