Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – A comprehensive pre-election opinion poll released today by the Center for Policy, Research, and Strategic Studies (CepRass) indicates a complex landscape of public sentiment as The Gambia prepares for the 2026 presidential elections.
The report, funded by the National Endowment for Democracy (NED), highlights critical areas of concern regarding national unity, electoral integrity, and the responsiveness of governance.
Key Findings on Public Sentiment
The poll reveals that while citizens remain engaged in the political process, there are “mixed feelings” regarding the overall confidence in the electoral system. A significant portion of the population expressed concerns over national unity, signaling a potential need for policies that foster greater national inclusion.
Proliferation of Political Parties, Vote Buying, and Governance Accountability
More t 20 political parties have either registered with the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) or intend to do so, with several independent candidates expected to appear on the ballot.
The report identifies vote buying as a persistent issue, calling for stricter enforcement of electoral legislation and expanded public education to penalize irregularities.
Findings suggest a demand for more responsive leadership that translates public grievances into concrete action.
The Role of Media and Information for Electoral Integrity
The survey emphasizes the growing influence of social media in shaping political awareness. It underscores a dual need: improving access to various media platforms while ensuring the legal protection of freedom of expression and promoting responsible journalism.
To address the current levels of public skepticism, CepRass recommends focusing on the independence of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC).
The report suggests that ensuring compliance with electoral laws is paramount to guaranteeing that the 2026 contest is viewed as free, fair, and credible across all regions.
Methodology and Context
The poll is part of a series of surveys planned for the 2026/2028 election cycle. CepRass, which has a track record of successfully predicting outcomes in previous Gambian election cycles, utilized a representative sample to forecast voting trends and assess key electoral issues.
The presidential election is mandated by the 1997 Constitution to take place in December 2026.
The Center for Policy, Research, and Strategic Studies (CepRass) is a leading research institution in The Gambia. With support from the NED, it has conducted influential polling for presidential, parliamentary, and local government elections during the 2021/2023 cycle.
