As The Gambia enters a new year, attention turns once again to the record of President Adama Barrow, who is approaching nine years in office as President of the Republic, Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, and Chair of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.
Since 2017, the Barrow administration has overseen a return to constitutional rule, expanded political freedoms, and reopened civic space after years of authoritarian governance. Political participation is now broader, public debate is more open, and democratic competition has become a defining feature of national life.
On the development front, the government has made visible gains. Road construction has expanded across the regions, access to electricity and clean water has improved, and public investment in health and education has increased. The Faraba university project, once dismissed by skeptics, is now operational and attracting both Gambian and international students.
These efforts have contributed to renewed confidence in the country’s development direction.
Security and stability have also improved. Community policing initiatives, increased patrols, and stronger border surveillance have enhanced public safety. Politically, the climate remains largely peaceful, allowing citizens, including young people, to openly engage in leadership ambitions without fear of persecution or exile.
However, alongside these achievements are unresolved governance and human rights concerns. Among the most prominent is the continued detention of Gambian Swiss-born Abdoulie Sanyang and others whose cases have remained in the public spotlight. Civil society organisations and concerned citizens continue to call for transparency, due process, and, where appropriate, the use of presidential clemency as a gesture of national reconciliation.
The slow implementation of recommendations from the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission, particularly outstanding reparations and compensation for victims, also remains a source of public concern. Many believe that addressing these issues is essential to completing The Gambia’s transition and restoring confidence in state institutions.
Observers note that a healthy democracy depends not only on development outcomes but also on accountability. Constructive pressure from opposition parties and civil society has played a role in pushing reforms and improving performance within government. Viewing political opposition as partners in democratic consolidation rather than adversaries could further strengthen governance.
As President Barrow enters another year in office, the national conversation is increasingly focused on balance: sustaining development while deepening justice, accountability, and reconciliation. History is likely to judge this period not only by infrastructure projects and economic indicators, but by how effectively unresolved human rights issues are addressed.
The new year presents an opportunity to consolidate progress while confronting unfinished business. For many Gambians, the hope is for a future defined not only by growth and stability, but by fairness, unity, and trust in the rule of law.
