NYP 2025 Elections: 53 Young Gambians Elected to Represent Their Constituencies

NYP Leaders © Askanwi

By Haddy Ceesay

On 16 July 2025, the National Youth Parliament (NYP) officially announced the results of its triennial parliamentary elections at a press conference held in Banjul — marking a historic milestone in youth democratic participation in The Gambia.

Speaking to journalists, Baboucarr Nyang, Chairman of the NYP Election Committee, hailed the elections as a transformative moment for the country.

“This election is not just an administrative milestone — it’s a national breakthrough. It marks the end of youth exclusion and the beginning of a future led by the voices of young Gambians from all 53 constituencies,” Nyang declared.

For the first time in NYP history, the elections were conducted through a direct, constituency-based system that was fully youth-led and paper-ballot based — designed to ensure transparency, inclusivity, and integrity.

“There were no shortcuts, no selections. It was pure democracy,” Nyang emphasized.

The process began with 172 nominations nationwide. Following a rigorous vetting process based on eligibility and integrity, 146 candidates were cleared to contest the elections. Three candidates were disqualified for submitting fraudulent documents.

However, a significant gender disparity emerged as a concern: only 23 of the 146 candidates were women — just 15% — a steep drop from the 47% female representation in the previous NYP cohort.

“This gender gap is unacceptable. We must do better — collectively,” said Nyang. “We call on civil society, families, educators, and the government to empower young women to take up leadership roles.”

Despite initial funding challenges, the NYP successfully launched a digital voter registration platform, registering over 23,000 young people. A robust voter education campaign followed — both online and in communities — culminating in a three-day nationwide voting exercise.

A total of 10,378 votes were cast across all constituencies. Due to logistical limitations, each constituency had only one polling station, which may have contributed to lower turnout figures.

The NYP also addressed election-related incidents in some areas. In Jarra East, supporters of certain candidates disrupted the counting process. Police intervened swiftly to secure the ballots and restore calm. The NYP confirmed that votes from the area would be counted and results announced after following due procedures.

In Wuli East, similar interference led to a formal petition. In total, seven petitions were filed by candidates from constituencies such as Tallinding and Ebo Town.

“These petitions are currently under review by our Petition Panel, in line with the NYP’s constitution and bylaws. We take these matters very seriously,” Nyang assured.

Ultimately, 53 youth parliamentarians were elected, representing all regions of The Gambia. The new lineup features a mix of returning constituencies and fresh faces, including notable female winners such as Fatoumatta Kaba (Banjul South), Mariama Jadama (Old Yundum), and Oumie Darboe (Bundung).

A full list of elected members by constituency is shown below.

Held every three years, the NYP elections offer young Gambians a platform to represent their communities and engage meaningfully in national discourse. The newly elected members are expected to be sworn in and begin their legislative duties in the coming weeks.

Chairman Nyang concluded by calling for sustained public support and collaborative efforts to keep youth at the forefront of national development.

“This is not the end — it is just the beginning of a new chapter in youth-led governance in The Gambia.”