Voters in Kiang Kaiaf went to the polls on Saturday in a closely watched by-election, with the ruling National People’s Party and the opposition United Democratic Party battling for the vacant seat.

The NPP is fielding Omar Touray, while the UDP candidate is Sulayman Sanneh, in a contest widely seen as a test of political strength ahead of the 2026 presidential election.

Speaking to reporters, the NPP’s deputy party spokesperson, Seedy SK Njie, expressed strong confidence that his party would emerge victorious, citing what he described as visible government development in the area.

“Many of you have seen us and seen the mood on the ground. We are happy to be here, and in just a few hours the results will be announced,” he said.

He told reporters that residents had shown clear signs of support for the ruling party, arguing that years of perceived neglect had begun to give way to infrastructure development under President Adama Barrow’s administration.

According to Mr Njie, road construction, electricity expansion, access to clean water and the building of schools and health facilities have transformed communities that were once isolated.

“Gone are the days when these areas were uninhabitable,” he said. “Now roads are connecting hamlets and villages. Electricity is coming, and by the end of 2026 we want to ensure that all these communities are electrified.”

He added that improved infrastructure would stimulate local economies, reduce the cost of goods and services, and increase the value of farmland and residential compounds.

“The essence of politics is service delivery,” Mr Njie said. “We are development-oriented. Promise made, promise fulfilled.”

He also described a high voter turnout across polling stations in Kiang Kaiaf, saying residents were eager to vote early and express what he called a “motion of gratitude” to President Barrow for development projects in rural areas.

“The community is in a jubilant mood,” he said.

“For people who have never seen roads or electricity before, this feels like a dream come true.”

The UDP, however, remains equally confident of victory. Speaking briefly, udp supporter Falang Sonko said the opposition party was poised to win both the by-election and the next national polls.

“By God’s grace, we will win this by-election here in Kiang Kaiaf,” he said. “We will also win the 2026 presidential election, and Lawyer Ousainu Darboe will be the next president.”

By Adama Makasuba