Gambia’s Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, Demba Sabally, has launched a sharp personal and political attack on Hon. Almamy Gibba of the APRC No to Alliance, questioning the lawmaker’s religious conduct during a political rally held on Wednesday in Giffoni Village, Foni.
Speaking at the rally, which was part of the campaign activities for the National People’s Party candidate Abdoulie Badjie in the Bantanjang Ward by-election, Sabally argued that outward displays of religiosity do not necessarily reflect genuine moral behavior.
“Having a long beard doesn’t automatically make someone a good Muslim,” Sabally told supporters. “If you claim to be religious, then act like it. Don’t go to places where they worship Jalang and then sleep in lodges. I sleep at my family home every day.”
The minister went further to contrast his own conduct with that of Hon. Gibba, accusing the opposition lawmaker of lacking transparency and connection to his roots.
“I, Demba Sabally, want Almamy Gibba to be honest with the people,” he said. “Since the start of this campaign, I have been sleeping at my father’s compound in Bondali. But Hon. Gibba has been staying at a lodge in Bwiam. Let him tell you who he is staying with. He has not even built a house in his own family compound.”
Sabally also used the platform to make a strong political appeal, urging residents of Giffoni to support the ruling NPP candidate. He warned that electing an opposition representative would limit the community’s access to government support and development projects.
“If you vote for the APRC No to Alliance candidate, he will not be able to access my office or other ministries like Energy or Works,” the minister said. “He will not be in a position to bring you roads or electricity. Only a ruling party representative can deliver that.”
He concluded by assuring the people of Giffoni that President Adama Barrow remains committed to advancing development in their area, promising continued government support if the NPP candidate emerges victorious in the by-election.
