The President’s Use of State Resources for Political Activities: A Violation of Electoral Laws and Abuse of Power!

Opinion Article by Ensa A B Ceesay

In any democratic society, the principles of fairness, accountability, and the rule of law are the bedrock of good governance. When those entrusted with public office blur the line between state functions and political activities, it undermines these very principles and threatens the integrity of the electoral process.

It has become increasingly concerning that the President, during his annual leave, continues to use state resources and logistics to conduct or host political events. Whether through the use of government vehicles, public security apparatus, or state media coverage, such practices amount to a misuse of public resources for partisan gain. This behavior not only violates the spirit of electoral fairness but may also constitute a direct breach of electoral laws and codes of conduct governing political behavior by public officials.

The Electoral Act and other related regulations are explicit in prohibiting the use of state resources to advance partisan interests. The intent behind these provisions is clear: to ensure a level playing field for all political actors and prevent incumbents from using their positions to gain unfair advantages. When these safeguards are ignored, democracy itself becomes compromised.

Equally troubling is the silence of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in the face of these apparent violations. Their inaction raises critical questions about institutional independence, accountability, and civic responsibility. The IEC, as the constitutional body mandated to regulate electoral conduct, should not remain indifferent when state resources are used for political ends. Similarly, CSOs—especially those engaged in governance and electoral transparency—must be vigilant and vocal in defending democratic norms.

Silence in the face of such abuses sends the wrong signal to both the government and the governed. It normalizes impunity, weakens public trust, and erodes the credibility of institutions meant to safeguard democracy. It is therefore imperative that the IEC and CSOs speak out, investigate, and demand accountability whenever public resources are diverted for political gain.

Democracy cannot thrive where oversight bodies remain mute, and citizens must insist on transparency, fairness, and adherence to the law—regardless of who occupies the highest office in the land.

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You can now write for the Open Gambia Platform, share information anonymously, and join the community. Please share your stories! Ensa A B Ceesay contributed to the article on 20th October 2025! Contributors’ views are strictly personal and not of The OpenGambia Platform!