Gambian President Has Edge in Vote Determined With Marbles

President Adama Barrow seen as frontrunner in election
Country hasn’t had smooth transfer of power since independence

Adama Barrow gestures to supporters during his final campaign rally in Banjul, on Dec. 2.Photographer: John Wessels/AFP/Getty Images

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By Modou Joof and Leanne de Bassompierre

December 4, 2021 at 5:00 AM UTC

Updated on

December 4, 2021 at 12:10 PM UTC

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Gambians will cast marbles on Saturday to determine the winner of the West African nation’s first presidential election since dictator Yahya Jammeh’s 22-year rule ended.

President Adama Barrow, 56, is expected to win a second term, with the opposition vote set to be split between 73-year-old former Vice President Ousainou Darboe -- a perennial candidate for the top job -- and four other contenders.