Bartholomeh Bolo Colley, NPP Candidate For Half Die Ward
By Ramatoulie Jawo
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) on Wednesday officially commenced the nomination process for the upcoming by-election in the Half Die Ward of Banjul, scheduled for April 26, 2025.
Bartholomew Bolo Colley, the candidate for the National People’s Party (NPP), was the first to submit his nomination papers. He arrived at the IEC office accompanied by party officials and supporters and formally handed over all required documentation to the returning officer.
IEC Returning Officer Sulayman Joof confirmed receipt of the nomination papers and assured that the documents would be thoroughly reviewed before the candidate’s eligibility is officially confirmed. He also reminded Colley of the electoral code of conduct and urged him to comply with all campaign regulations during the election period.
Speaking to the press following his submission, Mr. Colley expressed confidence in his candidacy, stating that his deep-rooted connection with the Half Die community makes him the ideal representative.
“I live with the people of Half Die. I know their challenges, and they know I can address them. I’m calling on them to come out in large numbers on election day and vote for me so we can work together to bring progress,” Colley said.
NPP Regional Chairman for Banjul, Ousman Abou Wadda, echoed Colley’s sentiments, noting that Half Die Ward has consistently supported the NPP in past elections. He emphasized that Colley is a respected youth leader in the area and enjoys strong grassroots support.
“We are not scared of anything because we know those people they know us. So whenever we stood by them they will give all their support which we know will definitely be victorious,” he said.
He emphasized that Colley is not only a resident of Half Die but also one of the most dedicated and outstanding youth leaders since the formation of the NPP.
As the ward’s youth coordinator, Colley has cultivated strong grassroots support, with the community itself putting forward his nomination. He noted that the party considers itself fortunate to have Colley as its candidate, stating that without him, the by-election would have posed a greater challenge.
“The people of Half Die rallied behind Mr. Colley because he is actively involved in all aspects of community life. He previously played for The Gambia’s U-23 national team and has been training and mentoring young people in the ward. His consistent involvement in development activities makes him a trusted and respected figure in the community,” he said.
The Deputy Spokesperson of the National People’s Party (NPP), Hon. Seedy SK Njie, expressed optimism that the party will secure a decisive victory in the upcoming by-election scheduled for April 26th.
He noted that the NPP has consistently won the Half Die Ward in previous electoral cycles, including the presidential, parliamentary, mayoral, and council elections.
“We remain deeply grateful to the people of Banjul for their unwavering support of the National People’s Party. We are confident that this strong relationship will continue, and we are hopeful that the momentum and positive trend will carry us through this by-election,” Njie stated.
He further highlighted the achievements of President Barrow’s administration in Banjul, noting the tangible improvements in infrastructure and social services that have uplifted the capital city. According to him, the party’s policies continue to focus on development and delivering meaningful change to the people of Banjul.
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) is organizing the by-election in the Banjul Half Die Ward to fill a vacancy left by former Councillor Momodou Bah. Bah, who was elected in 2023 under the NPP ticket, reportedly traveled to Europe on official duty and has since not returned to The Gambia.
Due to his prolonged absence, the IEC declared the seat vacant. According to the Commission’s schedule, the candidate for the People’s Alliance Party (PAP) is expected to submit their nomination papers in the coming days.