President Adama Barrow has called on opposition leaders, including United Democratic Party (UDP) leader Ousainou Darboe and former presidential candidate Essa Mbye Faal, to put aside political differences and work with his government to advance national development.
President Barrow made the appeal while speaking at the official inauguration of the EPC Lot 8 Gunjur Beach Side Road Project, where he stressed the need for greater political cooperation and a stronger focus on development.
Addressing Darboe, whom he described as his “godfather in politics,” President Barrow urged the veteran opposition leader to join forces with the government in the interest of the country.
He argued that the considerable financial resources committed to political campaigns could instead be directed towards infrastructure, public utilities and social services.
“The resources we spend on politics can be used to develop this country,” the President said, urging political actors to consider how their financial and organisational resources could contribute to national development.
President Barrow also extended an invitation to Essa Faal and other opposition leaders whom he said shared a commitment to the country’s development.
The President’s comments come amid significant political realignments ahead of The Gambia’s December 2026 presidential election. He cited the decision by Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC) leader Mama Kandeh to join his political camp as an indication of changing political dynamics.
Referring to the latest developments, President Barrow declared that “the election in The Gambia is over,” while maintaining that Gambians are closely following political developments and cannot easily be misled.
The President’s appeal for cooperation comes as political parties and alliances intensify their mobilisation ahead of the December 5 presidential election.
The Gunjur Beach Side Road Project, which was formally commissioned during the ceremony, was presented by the government as part of its broader infrastructure development programme.
President Barrow used the occasion to emphasise that sustained investment in roads and other public infrastructure requires national resources and collective political commitment.
His call for opposition leaders to collaborate with the government is likely to add another dimension to the ongoing political debate, particularly as parties prepare for what is expected to be a closely contested electoral season.
