The International Committee of Concern Gambians has urged President Adama Barrow to account for his government’s performance and investments since coming to power eight years ago.
Speaking on West Coast Radio with Peter Gomez, Abdoulie Sanyang, a senior member of the group and former soldier, accused the administration of failing to deliver on promises made to Gambians. He said the period of silence is over and “time is up for Barrow.”
Sanyang recalled his own role in the three-year protest movement that pushed for change, saying he invested personal funds and provided transportation for demonstrators. Despite the sacrifices made, he argued, Barrow has not lived up to the expectations of the Gambian people.
The ex-soldier also issued strong criticism of Chief of Defence Staff Mamat O.A. Cham, accusing him of threatening citizens during a broadcast on Radio Gambia. “The CDS has no right to go on national television and tell Gambians that anyone who misbehaves will be crushed,” Sanyang said, recalling that Cham once served as his company commander in the army.
He stressed that his group does not back any political party, though he admitted he once warned UDP leader Ousainou Darboe about Barrow’s alleged intentions. “Politicians are sweet in words but not practical,” he said, vowing to hold any future leader to account.
Looking ahead to the 2026 elections, Sanyang said a Barrow victory would represent a continuation of Yahya Jammeh’s rule. He alleged that the 2021 polls were marred by malpractice, including “spot counting” and the involvement of non-Gambians, and claimed that similar methods were used under Jammeh. He further alleged that Gambia’s ambassador to Mauritania, Sheikh Omar Faye, played a key role in election manipulation under both leaders.
In addition to demanding accountability from the presidency, Sanyang called for the resignation of State Intelligence Service Director General Ousman Sowe, whom he accused of failing in his duties. He also questioned the suitability of the new Minister of Foreign Affairs, saying the post requires “a decent Gambian” to represent the country effectively.
