Gambia names five candidates for December presidential election

The Gambia’s electoral commission named five candidates for the presidential election on December 5.

President Adama Barrow is seeking a third term, which is allowed under the country’s current constitution.

Earlier hopes for presidential term limits faded after lawmakers rejected two draft constitutions that would have introduced them.

The main opposition candidate is Ousainou Darboe, who leads the United Democratic Party and is running for president for the fifth time.

Youth candidate Talib Ahmed Bensouda is also on the list, despite government accusations of financial impropriety that had raised questions about his eligibility; his party called the accusations political.

Bensouda recently resigned as mayor and has drawn large crowds, while prolonged power cuts have fuelled protests against Barrow.

Campaigning is due to start next Monday, with four other candidates also approved, including Isatou Touray, the country’s first woman presidential nominee.