UNITE Movement Denounces Allegations Against Latrikunda Sabiji MP as Politically Motivated, Calls for Electoral Integrity in The Gambia
In a significant development highlighting the tense political climate in The Gambia, the UNITE Movement has forcefully rejected allegations of voter registration and birth certificate irregularities involving its senior official and National Assembly Member for Latrikunda Sabiji, Yahya Menteng Sanyang. The movement has framed the incident as a politically motivated attack, raising critical questions about the fairness of law enforcement and the integrity of the democratic process ahead of future elections.
A Detailed Account of the Police Summons
At a press conference held at the movement’s bureau in Fajara, spokesperson Kemo Bojang provided a detailed timeline of events. According to Bojang, Hon. Sanyang was summoned to the Fajikunda Police Station on 18 April 2026 following a complaint reportedly filed by members of the main opposition United Democratic Party (UDP).
Bojang stated that the MP cooperated fully with investigators, maintaining that all individuals involved in the referenced registration exercise were Gambian citizens of legal voting age. He emphasized that no evidence of wrongdoing was presented during this initial interaction.
Questions of Due Process and Legal Procedure
The spokesperson revealed a key procedural concern: Sanyang was recalled for additional questioning on 19 April after initially leaving the police station. Bojang argued that throughout both sessions, no formal charges were filed and no official case file was presented to the MP or his representatives.
“At no point was evidence presented or charges communicated. This process raises serious concerns about due process and fairness,” Bojang asserted, highlighting a potential gap between police action and established legal protocol.
Core Defense: Denial of Access and Institutional Role
The UNITE Movement built its defense on a clear institutional argument. They insisted that as a National Assembly Member, Yahya Menteng Sanyang has no official role or administrative access to the institutions responsible for issuing birth certificates or managing the national voter registration roll. These functions fall under the purview of the Gambia Immigration Department and the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), respectively.
“The allegations are baseless and inconsistent with established procedures,” Bojang stated, framing the claims as not only false but logistically implausible given the separation of powers and administrative responsibilities in The Gambia’s governance structure.
Allegations of Political Weaponization and a Call for Fairness
The movement’s response escalated into a broader political critique. UNITE accused political opponents of attempting to weaponize law enforcement processes to undermine its growing influence—a common tactic in competitive political landscapes where new parties challenge established ones.
Bojang pointed to perceived inconsistencies in how similar allegations involving other political actors are handled, urging authorities to apply the law uniformly and without bias. This call for a level playing field touches on a fundamental principle of democratic health: that state institutions must remain neutral and not be used as tools for political persecution.
A Firm Commitment to Continue Democratic Engagement
Despite the pressure, the movement struck a defiant tone. “UNITE will not be intimidated, and UNITE will not be silenced. We will continue to engage in the democratic process,” Bojang declared. This statement serves both as a reassurance to their supporters and a public commitment to remain active in The Gambia’s political arena.
The Broader Context: Electoral Integrity in The Gambia
This incident occurs against the backdrop of The Gambia’s ongoing democratic transition since the 2016/2017 change of government. Voter registration and citizenship verification are historically sensitive issues, often entangled in political disputes. The UNITE Movement’s final warning against the “politicisation of state institutions” and call for transparency and professionalism reflects a widespread concern about safeguarding the gains of the post-Jammeh era.
As of the latest reports, the Gambia Police Force has not publicly confirmed whether charges have been filed or if the investigation into Yahya Menteng Sanyang remains ongoing. This lack of official clarification from the authorities often fuels speculation and underscores the need for clear communication from state bodies to maintain public trust.
Reporting by Adama Makasuba