The leader of the Alliance for Patriotic Reorientation and Construction (APRC), Hon. Fabakary Tombong Jatta, has urged party supporters to uphold unity and resilience in the face of insults and political challenges.
Speaking on Saturday at the party’s “Road to 2026 Rally” at the Sinchu Alagie football field in Old Yundum, Jatta who also serves as Speaker of the Gambia’s National Assembly described the APRC as a party of “unwavering solidarity” that has remained intact despite years of speculation about internal divisions.
“APRC is the only party which when dancing in water people will say they are separating from their party but were united since 1994, until 2016,” he told the cheering crowd.
Jatta acknowledged that APRC members often face public insults but praised militants for what he called their measured response. “Until today all forms of insults are being directed to the APRC militants, but when responding, the APRC faithfuls do respond with respect and humility,” he said. He added that this approach, rooted in faith and acceptance of Allah’s will, has been key to the party’s resilience.
He reaffirmed his own commitment to civil discourse, saying: “I will not insult or castigate anyone.”
Turning to national politics, the APRC leader sent greetings to President Adama Barrow and addressed claims that the party is aligned with the ruling National People’s Party (NPP). While dismissing the criticism, he insisted that the APRC remains a major force in Gambian politics. Reflecting on recent elections, he noted that the APRC played a crucial role in Barrow’s 2021 victory. “In 2021, President Adama Barrow’s victory, any other party that participated, its participation will not be more than that of the APRC,” he argued.
Jatta positioned the APRC as an “honest political party,” assuring supporters that its statements reflect reality. He also revisited the controversy over former president Yahya Jammeh’s assets, saying the party had long raised concerns that are only now being echoed by others. He warned that the issue was “just the tip of the iceberg.” The Secretary General hinted at major upcoming activities, including a national rally, urging Gambians not to “forget about the APRC.”
Responding to suggestions that his leadership has distanced the APRC from former President Jammeh, Jatta said: “We don’t dislike anyone, even our enemies, especially those who put difficulty on us.” He called for reconciliation within the party, appealing to members of the “No to Alliance” faction to join ranks. “There are no permanent enemies,” he reminded, stressing the need for forgiveness and collective support.
Pointing to his own rise as Speaker of the National Assembly, he framed his political journey as an example of divine will. “Either we like it or not, that’s what the Almighty decides,” he said. Jatta also urged APRC elders to take the lead in unifying the party, noting that with Jammeh in exile, those still in the country must carry the responsibility of guiding and strengthening the movement.
Concluding his address, the APRC leader struck a hopeful note, describing the party as one family that must remain united for both its survival and the development of the Gambia.
