Darboe’s Appeal Is Untimely: Gambians Will Evaluate Based on Achievements, Not Political Rhetoric

By Yaya Dampha, NPP Diaspora Coordinator

The recent appeal made by UDP leader Ousainou Darboe, which urges his supporters to channel their political efforts towards President Adama Barrow and the National People’s Party (NPP), as opposed to other figures within the opposition, is both illuminating and belated.

Over the past several years, Gambians have observed an escalating antagonism among opposition parties, particularly between the UDP and various opposition participants. Instead of fostering issue-oriented politics and proposing alternative policy measures, the political dialogue among the opposition has largely been characterized by personal denigrations, insults, character defamation, and partisan vitriol. The divisions among these groups have grown so entrenched that Mr. Darboe’s call for moderation now seems more like a damage-control effort rather than a sincere shift in strategy.

The prevailing sentiment among Gambians is a diminishing interest in opposition disputes and a growing preference for parties that can deliver tangible outcomes. Political entities aspiring to leadership must do more than merely provide critiques; they must offer practical solutions, feasible policies, and a coherent vision geared towards national progress.

President Adama Barrow and the NPP need not fear political scrutiny, as their record of governance is accessible for the Gambian populace to review. Under President Barrow’s leadership, The Gambia has witnessed unparalleled infrastructural advancements, including substantial road construction initiatives, enhanced electricity access, improved public services, and significant investments in education, healthcare, and rural development.

Crucially, the nation continues to benefit from peace, political stability, and democratic freedoms, which empower every citizen, political party, journalist, and civil society organization to express their views without fear of retribution.

Opposition supporters occasionally contend that President Barrow should not be credited with the democratic advancements made since 2017, arguing that “the Gambian people brought the change.” While it is undeniable that the Gambian populace deserves commendation for exercising their democratic rights in 2016, such assertions overlook a fundamental reality: democracy is not solely established through elections.

The very same Gambians who endorsed change in 2016 also consistently supported former President Yahya Jammeh during his twenty-two-year tenure. However, as time progressed, his regime became increasingly autocratic. This illustrates that democracy is determined not only by the mechanisms of electoral power but also by the manner in which leaders govern once in office.

Citizens may elect leaders, but it is those leaders who define the nature and character of their administrations.

President Barrow inherited significant constitutional authority. Had he opted for intolerance, repression, and political vengeance, The Gambia’s democratic progress could have been readily jeopardized. Instead, he embarked on a different trajectory—one founded on political tolerance, respect for democratic institutions, freedom of speech, and peaceful coexistence with political adversaries.

Currently, opposition parties function without restriction. Critics of the government can articulate their opinions openly. Independent media outlets operate free from coercion. Social media platforms are frequently populated with critiques of the administration. These conditions exist because President Barrow consciously elected to govern in a democratic manner.

Thus, while the Gambian people should be acknowledged for their role in advocating for change, President Barrow deserves recognition for upholding and safeguarding that mandate. Democracy is perpetuated not merely by elections but by effective leadership.

As the nation approaches subsequent elections, the NPP is poised to engage with all opposition parties on the foundation of factual records, performance, and achievements. We shall present our track record in terms of peace, democratic governance, infrastructural development, economic growth, and institutional reforms to the Gambian people.

The onus for the opposition lies not merely in uniting against President Barrow but in persuading Gambians that they offer a superior vision, more robust leadership, and a more credible developmental agenda than what is currently being pursued.

In conclusion, Gambians will cast their votes based on observable realities, lived experiences, and trust in the individuals they believe will effectively advance the nation.

The Gambian populace initiated a pathway for change in 2016. President Adama Barrow has ensured that this pathway remains open while broadening the democratic landscape for all. This accomplishment merits acknowledgment and constitutes a record that the NPP will vigorously defend before the electorate.

Consequently, the forthcoming discourse should center on performance, development, and outcomes rather than political rhetoric and persistent opposition discord.