The ruling National People’s Party (NPP) failed to gain a majority in the National Assembly elections on Saturday and will face an uphill battle in Parliament to pass legislation.

The NPP won 19 seats out of the 53 constituencies despite deploying huge resources during the campaign period.

The main opposition United Democratic Party secured 15 seats, while Independent candidates made up of pro-Jammeh groups secured 11 seats including five in the Fonis.

National Reconciliation Party which backed President Barrow’s party managed to win four seats. 

PDOIS, who suffered a shock defeat after party heavyweight Sidia Jatta lost his safe seat, managed to win three seats.

Other opposition parties including  Gambia Democratic Congress, Gambia Moral Congress, People’s Progressive Party, Gambia For All and Citizens Alliance all failed to secure a single seat in the upcoming national assembly.

President Adama Barrow suffered a major setback in his bid to secure a majority in Parliament. He’s dogged by a cost of living crisis, rising unemployment rate and accusations of rampant corruption.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba