Aspirant Candidate Withdraws, 3 Present Credentials to IEC

At the opening of the 2021 Presidential nomination for December 4th polls, two aspirant candidates presented their credentials to the chairman of the Independence Electoral Commission (IEC) awaiting approval on Saturday while one withdrew from the race.

Joseph H. Joof, an Independent aspirant who first appeared on Saturday came with two followers, when asked by journalists, he said “I don’t want to bring about 200 people dancing all over the place, it cost money that can go to the Gambian people.”

He said that money can be kept and used for the benefit of their families. The former Justice Minister added that when the victory comes, they can all celebrate it together.

“We decided not to bring people because there is no need for it. I came with two people and I am happy with it because the procedure is the important thing and not the crowd.”

Mathew Gomez, an Independent aspirant who appeared before the panel of IEC authorities, came alone and withdrew from the race. Mr. Gomez who came some 30 minutes before his time, waited in the back seat before meeting the IEC authorities.

Marie Sock-Jobarteh, the country’s only female aspirant candidate told journalists that she realized not long ago that she was among the first to be nominated. Mrs. Sock-Jobarteh who didn’t declare her asset said will do that in the next few days.

“We still don’t have the asset declaration forms and some of our nomination papers are still at the village.”
Dwelling on her inspiration, she said this is the time she has been waiting because she wants every woman to have a voice and be represented in politics and the government. She added that since she came to the country in 2013, she saw young people and women struggling.

“I am a mother and I have a lot of young people around me trying so hard. For them to ask me to stand for them, I think is a calling not only by them but by God that I should do something for the country. I have to help, support, and empower them.”

Alagie Mamadi Kurtang, another Independent aspirant said he is the right candidate at the moment because the world is going through some changes and the Gambia needs a candidate that can seal through the difficulties, understand the economy and the political issues. Mr. Kurang added that he has been tested and proven by young people, saying he has been operating an institution that employs and trains more than 20, 000 Gambians who are employed in average industries.

“I understand the economic problem of this country and the major problem of the country is poverty. The country needs a problem solver and I have not been corrupted by any government. I’m a neutral person that people can trust to deliver what society needs.”

Mr. Kurang promised to advance the country’s education and agricultural sector and create 500, 000 jobs for young people.