2 File Nominations, One Quits Presidential Race

Two presidential aspirants, Independent Salieu Jallow and Progressive Citizens (APC) leader Modou Lamin Sima both filed nominations on the first day of proceedings at the Independent Electoral Commission yesterday, while a third one, All Inclusive Party (AIP) leader Yiramba Darboe, withdrew from the race.

Salieu Jallow, who presented himself as the candidate of the ‘struggling class’ was referred to complete his paper work including the missing all important mandatory D1 million deposit slip, a fully signed nomination paper, a notarised asset declaration and campaign itinerary.

Jallow claimed there was a misunderstanding on payment. “We thought we would be given a bank slip to go and pay, rather than coming with cash. But it will be paid,” he told journalists. He said he is self-employed and currently runs his own business.

For 54-year-old APC leader Modou Lamin Sima, the story was similar. He claimed to have deposited the D1 million, but failed to show proof. “We have deposited,” he insisted.

The IEC also referred him to bring originals instead of photocopies of citizenship and educational certificates.

His asset declaration was also done on a separate affidavit instead of the official IEC form and was not notarised. Sima promised to return tomorrow with his original passport and certificates.