IEC Forum: Concerns Raised Over Rising Number of Political Parties

IEC Leadership

By Fatoumata Jaiteh,

At the Independent Electoral Commission’s (IEC) monthly stakeholder forum held on 10th March 2026, concerns were raised regarding the growing number of political parties in the country and the commission’s capacity to effectively manage them.

Prominent human rights activist and religious leader Imam Baba Leigh questioned the IEC on what measures are being taken to control the increasing number of political parties, particularly those that tend to emerge as elections approach.
“So many political parties always emerge when elections are nearing,” Imam Leigh remarked, raising concerns about the trend.

He further asked whether the commission has the necessary logistics and resources to effectively cater to all the political parties currently registered in the country.

Reacting to this, the IEC Chair, Joseph Colley, noted, “If someone has the right, you have nothing else to do but give them the opportunity to register.”

The Chairperson explained that the commission has already taken steps to regulate the process. He revealed that the registration fee for political parties has recently been increased to two million dalasis, a move intended to ensure that only serious groups seek registration.

According to the Chairperson, the number of registered political parties has now risen to 22, despite the increased registration fee.

He also highlighted challenges the commission faces during the verification of party offices. The Chairperson noted that some aspiring political parties attempt to meet the requirements only temporarily during inspection periods.

“Some do not even have proper offices, but when it is time for inspection, they quickly open offices. Once the IEC leaves, they close them again,” he said.

However, the IEC Chairperson warned that the commission is aware of such tactics.

“We sometimes return the same day to check whether the offices are actually operational, and in some cases, we discover that they are not. They only open when inspection is ongoing,” he added.

The Chairperson stressed that the commission remains vigilant in ensuring that all registered political parties meet the required standards.

“Know that we are watching you. We know your tricks, so be ready for us,” he cautioned.

The stakeholder forum forms part of the IEC’s ongoing engagement with political actors, civil society representatives, and other stakeholders, aimed at strengthening transparency and accountability within the country’s electoral processes.