The National People’s Party (NPP) has issued a strongly worded statement criticizing what it describes as a growing trend of “opportunistic” activism on social media aimed at discrediting President Adama Barrow.
In a press release issued by NPP’s Media and Communication Secretary, Sulayman Camara, the party accused certain individuals of hijacking legitimate youth concerns to launch personal attacks against the President. According to Camara, these individuals are “mere opportunists” who are exploiting online platforms not to advocate for meaningful change, but to “sow discord and vilify” President Barrow.
“Let it be made abundantly clear,” the statement reads, “President Barrow’s legacy will be based on rule of law, and respect for democratic principles. He remains open to constructive engagement and has always respected the right of citizens, especially the youths, to express their views peacefully and lawfully.”
However, the NPP warned that the President’s openness should not be mistaken for weakness. The party stressed that while freedom of expression is respected, it “is not a license for defamation and misinformation.”
The statement, which doesn’t mention any specific individuals or groups, alludes to recent online criticism directed at the President’s leadership. In recent weeks, youth-led online campaigns have grown more vocal, demanding greater government accountability and improved living conditions. Some of these campaigns have also questioned the President’s commitment to reform.
Camara hinted at legal consequences for those who “cross the redlines” set by social media platforms and laws governing online conduct. “If your only claim to relevance is stirring chaos on social media, then carry on with your gimmicks,” he said. “But we can safely tell you that if you cross the redlines… we will leave no stone unturned in our quest in you facing the full brunt of the law.”
The NPP concluded its statement by reaffirming its commitment to peace, progress, and prosperity, and called on “genuine citizens” to engage in respectful discourse for the good of the country.
The tone of the statement signals a more defensive posture from the ruling party amid growing public frustration over issues such as unemployment, cost of living, and political transparency.
As tensions rise both online and offline, it remains to be seen how the government will balance its commitment to democratic freedoms with its warning against what it views as abusive or misleading speech.
