The Gambia Police Force is calling on the general public to support the security agencies in maintaining law and order across the country during the presidential election.
Gambians are going to the polls today, December 4, to elect a new president who will run the affairs of the country for the next five years.
“There would be police presence to ensure orderliness including at the polling stations and centers around the country, as well as to monitor and mitigate any form of disorderliness and breach of the peace.” A press statement issued by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Abdoulie Sanyang noted.
Voting across all polling stations was expected to open at 8: 00 am and close at 5: 00 pm. Meanwhile, voters who are in a queue at 5: 00 pm will be allowed to cast their ballot before the close of voting.
The Police administration has also listed some guidelines on acceptable behaviour around polling areas:
- All eligible voters at polling stations are urged to cooperate with all police officers to ensure that queuing system is followed and no disturbance occurs to disrupt the voting process.
- Voters are encouraged to retire to their homes and avoid any form of grouping within or around the polling areas or premises after casting their votes.
- Voters are advised to avoid wearing T-shirts or gears with part logos or inscriptions at polling centres during the voting.
- Members of the public are advised against any form of public announcement without authorisation, of the results of the election and must wait for IEC to do the announcements.
- People must continue to remain calm and law-abiding, and promptly notify the relevant security institution of any clandestine or suspicious activity.
By: Isatou Sallah
