National Assembly Elections
Understanding how Members of the National Assembly are elected to represent the people of The Gambia.
The Electoral System
The Gambia uses a First-Past-The-Post (FPTP) electoral system for National Assembly elections. Under this system, the candidate who receives the most votes in each constituency wins the seat, regardless of whether they achieve an absolute majority.
Elections are conducted by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), an autonomous body established under the 1997 Constitution to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections.
The National Assembly term is five years, after which new elections must be held. The President may dissolve the Assembly and call for early elections under certain circumstances.
Key Election Facts
Elected Members
Directly elected from 53 constituencies
Nominated Members
Appointed by the President
Year Term
Duration of each legislature
Voting Age
Minimum age to vote
Constituencies
The Gambia is divided into 53 constituencies, each represented by one elected Member of the National Assembly.
Banjul (Capital City)
Constituencies:
- Banjul Central
- Banjul North
- Banjul South
3 Constituencies
Central River Region
0 Constituencies
Kanifing Municipal Council
Constituencies:
- Bakau
1 Constituencies
Lower River Region
0 Constituencies
North Bank Region
0 Constituencies
Upper River Region
0 Constituencies
West Coast Region
0 Constituencies
Who Can Vote?
To be eligible to vote in National Assembly elections, a person must:
- Be a citizen of The Gambia
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Be of sound mind
- Be registered on the voter register
- Not be disqualified by law
Who Can Stand for Election?
To be eligible to contest for a National Assembly seat, a person must:
- Be a citizen of The Gambia
- Be at least 21 years of age
- Be able to speak, read, and write English
- Be a registered voter
- Not hold certain public offices
- Not be disqualified by law
Election History
Key National Assembly elections since the return to democratic governance.
6th Legislature Election
Current legislature elected following constitutional reforms. NPP emerged as the largest party.
5th Legislature Election
Historic election following political transition. Multiple parties gained representation.
4th Legislature Election
Parliamentary elections held under the previous political administration.
Independent Electoral Commission
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) is responsible for conducting and supervising all public elections and referendums in The Gambia.
Visit IEC Website