Former National Assembly Member (NAM) for Jimara District, Alhagie H. Sowe, has officially joined the ruling National People’s Party (NPP), declaring his support for President Adama Barrow ahead of The Gambia’s 2026 presidential election.
Speaking to JollofNews on Monday from his home village of Sare Kokeh in the Upper River Region, Sowe described his move as an “unconditional” decision motivated by what he considers the government’s development achievements in Jimara District and across the country.
The former lawmaker, who recently resigned from the opposition Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC), said he had received approaches from several political parties following his departure but ultimately chose to align with the NPP after assessing the country’s political landscape.
“My entry into politics was never for personal gain, but for a higher calling the development and upliftment of my people in Jimara District,” Sowe told JollofNews. “After careful analysis of the political landscape, I am convinced that President Adama Barrow and the NPP embody the vision I have long pursued.”
Sowe cited ongoing infrastructure projects and rural development initiatives as the principal reasons behind his decision, arguing that the government’s investments have brought tangible improvements to communities in his constituency.
According to him, nearly 80 percent of communities in Jimara District now have access to electricity, significantly improving living conditions for rural households. He also highlighted ongoing road construction projects in the district and disclosed that additional infrastructure works are expected to commence next year following recent foundation stone-laying ceremonies.
Beyond Jimara, Sowe praised what he described as the Barrow administration’s progress in education, agriculture, healthcare and rural development, saying the government has made notable strides in reducing the development gap between urban and rural communities.
“The progress taking place in Jimara and across the country speaks for itself,” he said. “Our people deserve continued development, peace and stability.”
His defection comes as political parties intensify preparations for the 2026 presidential election. Widely regarded as an experienced grassroots mobiliser in the Upper River Region, Sowe pledged to campaign vigorously for President Barrow’s re-election.
“I declare my full support for the NPP and its leader and pledge to redouble my efforts in advancing its mission,” he said. “My commitment is to mobilise my people in Jimara and beyond so that together we deliver a resounding victory a landslide that reflects the trust and confidence Gambians have in this leadership.”
Sowe concluded by calling on Gambians, particularly undecided voters, to prioritise national unity, peace and continued infrastructure development as the country heads toward the 2026 polls.
