The UNITE Movement for Change has expressed deep concern over what it describes as a “dangerous abuse of authority” in Nyangen village, warning that the incident could undermine electoral integrity ahead of voter registration exercises.

In a statement, the party’s spokesperson, Kemo Bojang, said local authorities allegedly confiscated the official alkali stamp, an instrument used to validate documents required for voter registration.

Mr Bojang claimed the action was linked to the political affiliation of the alkali’s son, who is said to be associated with the UNITE Movement.

He warned that the confiscation could prevent hundreds of residents from obtaining attestations needed to register for voter cards, effectively denying them their constitutional right to vote.

“This is unacceptable,” he said, adding that traditional leaders should remain neutral and not use public institutions to punish political association.

UNITE also accused authorities of intimidation and suppression, describing the incident as part of a broader pattern targeting those aligned with the movement.

Nyangen, in Niani District of the Central River Region, is among rural communities where voter registration often relies on attestations issued locally, especially for residents lacking formal identification.

The movement is calling for the immediate return of the alkali stamp, restoration of access to voter documentation, and an independent investigation.

UNITE has also urged the government to guarantee that no citizen is denied the right to vote based on political affiliation.

The government has not yet responded publicly to the allegations.

By Adama Makasuba