Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – Barthalomeh “Bolo” Colley of the National People’s Party (NPP) has emerged victorious in the Half-Die Ward council by-election, defeating Salieu M.S. Jallow of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP). Colley garnered 601 votes, while Jallow secured 317 votes. The results are pending official confirmation by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC).

The by-election was necessitated by the vacancy left after former councillor Momodou Bah of the NPP failed to return from an official trip to Europe in late 2024, leading the IEC to declare the seat vacant. The contest attracted significant attention, with both candidates emphasizing their deep-rooted connections to the Half-Die community and pledging to address pressing local issues.

Campaign Highlights and Community Engagement

Colley, a native of Half-Die and a founding member of the Benna Banjul South Association, focused his campaign on youth empowerment, infrastructure development, and community sanitation initiatives. He expressed confidence in his support base, stating, “I know the people of Half-Die too well, and they have been with me from the onset. I believe with them, I will be victorious.”

Jallow, also a lifelong resident of Half-Die and a seasoned community organizer, emphasized his commitment to grassroots development and political inclusivity. He highlighted the challenges posed by the ongoing Banjul Port expansion, which has transformed residential areas into commercial zones, leading to displacement and infrastructural strain.

Political Alliances and Electoral Conduct

The by-election saw strategic political maneuvers, with the People’s Alliance Party (PAP) withdrawing their candidate to support Jallow, aiming to consolidate opposition votes against the ruling NPP. The campaign period was marked by active civic engagement, with the National Council for Civic Education (NCCE) conducting voter sensitization programs to promote informed participation and political tolerance .

While the provisional results indicate a clear lead for Colley, the official declaration by the IEC is awaited to formalize the outcome. The by-election’s results are anticipated to influence the political landscape in Banjul, setting the stage for future electoral contests.