By: Seringe ST Touray

“A human being can’t live in the jungle alone,” Sallah began, emphasizing the interconnected nature of society and governance. “If we don’t know who we are, we won’t know what we own. If we don’t know what we own, that won’t benefit us.”

Looking back at the historic turning point of the 2016 election, Sallah highlighted how peaceful democratic transition proved more powerful than military might. “People thought he’d never lose because he came into power by force,” he said, referring to former President Yahya Jammeh. “We thought that only such force would remove him. Instead, it was the voice of the people that ultimately prevailed, leading to Jammeh’s departure.”

However, Sallah expressed concern about persistent challenges in governance and resource management under successive administrations. “Every year, every house here pays taxes, including businesses, and no one is seeing the returns of what they’re paying. This is what we faced during Jawara, then Jammeh, and now Barrow,” he observed, pointing to a pattern of leadership that he believes has hindered national progress.

The PDOIS leader emphasized that national development requires proper investment of public resources. “What will remove us from this backwardness is for the country to properly invest its wealth or revenue into the various sectors of the nation for development,” he stated, suggesting that current governance approaches are failing to meet basic citizen needs.

“A house without sustenance will break down. A country without sustenance will break down,” Sallah warned, drawing a parallel between household and national management. His message underscored that the future of The Gambia depends on responsible governance and effective use of national resources for the benefit of all citizens.

By: Dawda Baldeh

Prominent Gambian international lawyer and leader of the Turn Around Movement, Essa Mbye Faal, has clarified his controversial remarks about donkey carts, saying his statement was misinterpreted by individuals who don’t understand the English language.

Faal, 58, is among the many Gambians interested in joining the presidential race in 2026, following his unsuccessful bid in the 2021 presidential election. In a controversial interview at Kerr Fatou, Faal made remarks that he classifies as “euphemisms.”

He referred to President Adama Barrow as “Adu Boy” and disclosed that one of the president’s advisers is a former “donkey cart driver.” These remarks sparked debate online, with many, including Dou Sano, presidential adviser, deeming them disrespectful and offensive.

In a recent interview hosted by Sheikh Ahmed Ceesay via TikTok, Faal said his remarks were misinterpreted. “I don’t mean to hurt anyone or attack on donkey drivers,” he said. “This is a euphemism. It means the President should appoint people with knowledge in key positions. Dou Sano don’t understand English and that’s why he went on to call me all types of names,” Faal said.

Faal, who is optimistic about a victory in the forthcoming presidential election, said he will never disrespect any Gambian, but emphasized the importance of appointing people based on merit for the development of the country. “…Just like the minister of agriculture with no agricultural studies. He studied nursing and now he’s appointed as agriculture minister to solve agricultural problems. We need to appoint people with qualifications in various positions.”

Faal also criticized President Barrow’s administration for its handling of the country’s affairs, advocating for decent politics, and noting that the country belongs to every citizen and that people are related in various ways. “The person you are insulting today may be your relative, who you don’t know, or is related to someone you are related to. So, let’s do our politics in a civilized manner,” he stressed.

By Alieu Jallow

Sidia Jatta, a prominent member of the People’s Democratic Organisation for Independence and Socialism (PDOIS) and former National Assembly Member for Wuli West, recently engaged residents of Jarra Jaliyaa in discussions on strategies to address The Gambia’s economic challenges. Jatta emphasized the effective utilization of the country’s natural resources and critiqued the government’s efforts in improving citizens’ welfare.

“We have tried to put an end to the country’s sufferings, but it has failed to yield results. The Gambia is small, but we are blessed with abundant natural resources. Some may argue that we need gold and diamonds, but those are not the only sources of wealth. Look at our river—it is a blessing that many countries do not have. The river alone can feed this nation. Efforts have been made to change the narrative, but to no avail.

If you closely examine our farming system, the truth is that we can farm all year round, whether it’s the rainy season or not, because God has blessed us with a river that supports year-round farming. However, this depends on having strategies and policies to harness this potential. Sadly, we remain stagnant in the same place,” Jatta explained.

During the meeting, Jatta highlighted the persistent economic crisis and the rising cost of living affecting Gambians. He outlined how the country’s failure to export groundnuts significantly impacts foreign revenue, which is vital for boosting the economy. Jatta also criticized the current regime for its inability to provide employment opportunities for young people.

“A lot of you young people have graduated from Grade 12, others from university, while some who finish Grade 12 cannot advance. There are no jobs because the government in power cannot provide employment. If you hear that jobs can be created, it’s only possible when public funds are invested in ventures that yield dividends. With those investments, jobs can be created. But if such investments are absent, job creation is impossible,” he stated.

The PDOIS, established in 1986, has consistently promoted socialist principles, focusing on democracy, independence, and social justice within The Gambia. The party has played a pivotal role in fostering political discourse aimed at national development and equitable resource distribution.

Jatta’s engagement in Jarra Jaliyaa reflects the PDOIS’s commitment to grassroots involvement in policy discussions. By encouraging citizens to actively participate in dialogues about the nation’s future, the party seeks to empower communities to contribute to solutions that address economic hardships and enhance living standards.

The Gambia’s economic landscape is shaped by various factors, including international assistance and government policies. Effective management of natural resources remains a critical component of the country’s development strategy.

The prominent politician also spoke to community members about the importance of public funds being reinvested into the population to create job opportunities.

As the nation continues to navigate economic challenges, the call for collaborative efforts between the government, political entities, and citizens becomes increasingly pertinent. Engagements like Jatta’s session in Jarra Jaliyaa serve as platforms for collective reflection and action towards a more prosperous and equitable Gambia.

By Michaella Faith Wright

The Gambia Action Party (GAP) has called on President Adama Barrow to embrace a leadership style that prioritises national unity, transparency, and accountability.

In a statement by Musa Ousainou Yali Batchilly, GAP’s Secretary General and Party Leader, the party emphasised the importance of visionary leadership and collective responsibility in addressing the country’s pressing challenges.

Batchilly urged the president to reflect deeply on his tenure and legacy, emphasizing that leadership is temporary, but its impact is lasting.

“History is watching, and Gambians are more politically aware and engaged than ever before. The presidency is not about personal or partisan interests; it is about advancing the collective good,” Batchilly said.

The statement also highlighted the critical role of the 2024 draft constitution in shaping The Gambia’s future. GAP called for constructive dialogue and collaboration among political stakeholders to ensure the new constitution reflects the aspirations of all Gambians.

“Governance is a shared responsibility. If contentious clauses in the draft constitution must be amended, let us engage in dialogue to achieve a document that unites rather than divides,” Batchilly said.

GAP identified urgent issues such as the rising cost of living, corruption, crime, and inefficiencies in the public sector, urging the president to take decisive action. The party reminded President Barrow and his advisers of the ideals they championed in their opposition to the Jammeh regime, warning against complacency and mismanagement.

“Many of the president’s advisers were vocal critics of the past regime, advocating for democracy and justice. Have they forgotten the ideals they fought for? Leadership is temporary, but actions are permanent,” Batchilly added.

While reaffirming GAP’s support during the 2021 presidential election, Batchilly made it clear that the party’s loyalty lies with the Gambian people and not with any individual or party.

“True patriotism demands accountability. GAP will support initiatives that promote unity, development, and justice, but we will not remain silent in the face of mismanagement,” he asserted.

In his concluding remarks, Batchilly challenged the president to act decisively, reminding him that his leadership will be judged by history. “Fix the mess, address the challenges, and lead with the knowledge that your legacy will outlive your presidency,” he urged.

The Gambia Action Party reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the well-being of the nation, pledging to support efforts that align with the collective good of the Gambian people.

By Dawda Baldeh

The National Alliance For Accelerated Advancement (NAFAA) has emerged as a new political movement in The Gambia, initiated by a group of young Gambians frustrated with the existing administration.

This political movement is expected to join the presidential race in the 2026 presidential election.

The movement’s goal is to promote democratic principles and increase youth involvement in governance, positioning itself as a socio-conservative entity committed to self-sufficiency, economic liberty, patriotism, and the protection of human rights.

Established before the 2016 elections, NAFAA aims to bring together people from various backgrounds, irrespective of tribe, religion, race, gender, or abilities, to work towards the shared objective of enhancing living conditions and accelerating development in The Gambia.

The movement underscores its dedication to economic success, which is in line with inclusive and conservative values that have historically fostered peace in the nation.

NAFAA has named Ousainou Allen as its presidential candidate.

Allen is acknowledged as an advocate for social rights, educator, and philanthropist with a robust community development and education background.

He is particularly noted for founding the International Open University (IOU) in The Gambia and extending its influence to three additional countries in the region.

His leadership at IOU and his partnerships with various ministries have been pivotal in initiatives such as the creation of a national minimum wage and the advancement of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education.

Beyond his educational efforts, Allen has significantly contributed to building connections with Arabic and Islamic institutions, notably by introducing a one-year Intensive English Course that has enhanced access to higher education for Arabic-speaking students.

He has also established the first Islamic Montessori school in The Gambia, focusing on quality, child-centred education.

NAFAA emphasizes Allen’s diverse roles as a testament to his commitment to promoting social causes through activism, to advocate for a culturally and economically independent Africa.

The movement’s emphasis on youth involvement and its inclusive strategy reflects a strong desire for substantial change in The Gambia’s political landscape.

By Alieu Jallow

Saikou Camara, a prominent member of the United Democratic Party (UDP) residing in the diaspora, has publicly urged the National Assembly to reject President Adama Barrow’s 2024 draft constitution. Camara emphasized the need for comprehensive consultations with stakeholders and advocated revisiting the 2020 draft constitution, which he believes more accurately reflects the aspirations of the Gambian people.

“I urge all National Assembly members to reject Barrow’s draft and send it back to the State House, demanding a consultative meeting that includes all relevant stakeholders to revisit the 2020 CRC draft. The draft must then be reintroduced to the National Assembly for proper consideration,” he stated.

The 2020 draft constitution, developed by the Constitutional Review Commission (CRC), was previously rejected by the National Assembly in September 2020. This rejection was primarily due to disagreements over presidential term limits and executive powers.

Saikou highlighted that, with this historical context in mind, President Barrow and his cabinet clandestinely amended the CRC’s final draft, excluding key stakeholders from the process. He noted that these amendments are designed to entrench Barrow’s presidency and weaken democratic safeguards.

“In a functional democracy, laws should reflect the will of the majority while protecting their rights. However, the Barrow draft constitution prioritizes the interests of the president and his cabinet, leaving the majority of Gambians vulnerable to authoritarianism. Under Barrow’s leadership, The Gambia’s political sphere has become consumed by ego and personal ambition—a zero-sum game where winning and losing overshadow good governance, democratic practices, and national interests. Barrow has made politics a personal battle against the United Democratic Party (UDP) and Honorable Ousainou Darboe, losing sight of the bigger picture—the Gambian people,” he outlined.

Mr. Camara emphasized that it would be a grave mistake for opposition members of parliament to allow a document as crucial as a national constitution to rest solely in the hands of NPP National Assembly Members. He accused the NPP of already demonstrating to Gambians that their primary agenda is to safeguard President Adama Barrow’s political interests, not the nation’s welfare. He highlighted that such a decision would be a betrayal of the democratic process and the aspirations of the Gambian people.

“Given that the NPP holds the majority in parliament, if the tabled bill progresses beyond the second reading to the committee stage in the National Assembly, it will no longer require the 75% threshold to advance to a referendum. Instead, it will rely on a simple majority. This gives the NPP a significant advantage, enabling them to approve or amend the Barrow draft constitution as they see fit. I am calling on all Gambians to demand accountability and transparency from President Barrow and his administration. They must be held accountable for breaking their campaign promises and for failing to act in the national interest. They must be transparent in all dealings concerning matters of national importance. Above all, Barrow must deliver a dignified and democratic constitution that Gambians deserve,” he stated.

The UDP member stressed the significance of accountability and transparency, citing that they are not merely buzzwords but are essential for safeguarding democracy. Camara emphasized that Gambians don’t just want a new constitution—they need a constitution with robust, just, and equitable laws that guide and protect them.

“As a proud member of the UDP, I believe we have a country to build, and political parties will naturally propose competing visions and strategies for our nation’s future. However, these differences should never derail our collective national interests. Disagreements and debates are inevitable in nation-building, but we must never allow these divisions to fester into hate or selfish motives that undermine our democracy. Those who act out of greed and betrayal must be called out and held accountable for jeopardizing our collective progress, without generalizing or trivializing matters,” he stated.

As the National Assembly deliberates on the proposed constitution, the UDP’s stance adds a significant dimension to the ongoing discourse on Gambia’s constitutional future. The outcome of this debate will have lasting implications for the country’s governance and democratic trajectory.

By: Michaella Faith Wright

Mamadou Bah, a former aspiring presidential candidate, has urged The Gambian government and opposition leaders to prioritize youth employment, address the plight of young migrants in Tunisia, and foster national development through practical initiatives.

Bah, who ran as an independent candidate in the 2021 presidential election but was ultimately disqualified, is now leveraging his platform to advocate for meaningful reforms that benefit Gambian youth and women. Speaking on the state of the nation, he emphasized the need for 2025 to be a year of peace, progress, and opportunity for young Gambians.

He called on the government to recognize youth as active citizens with civil rights, including the right to employment and participation in nation-building. Bah also urged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to establish an embassy in Tunisia, equipped with proper accommodations for Gambian migrants, many of whom continue to face brutality from local citizens. “The foreign ministry must take full responsibility for protecting the lives and properties of Gambians in Tunisia,” he stressed.

Furthermore, Bah implored the government, under President Adama Barrow, to implement policies aimed at curbing illegal migration by creating job opportunities and scholarships for young people. He argued that such measures are crucial for providing hope and deterring dangerous migration attempts.

Addressing opposition leaders, Bah called on them to move beyond empty political rhetoric and focus on empowering women and youth through tangible programs, resources, and expertise. “Let us stop the talking and start supporting our people,” he stated, underscoring the importance of collective responsibility in driving national development.

Mamadou Bah’s message serves as a timely reminder of the urgency to prioritize youth and women in shaping The Gambia’s future. His call is a rallying cry for both the government and opposition to work collaboratively toward a brighter and more prosperous 2025.