In a fiery and unapologetic statement, Rohey Malick Lowe, the first female Mayor of Banjul and the first to serve two consecutive terms, has broken her silence to address what she describes as a relentless smear campaign targeting her and her family. The statement, posted on her official social media page with the hashtag #atebaila, marks a turning point in Lowe’s approach to the ongoing political attacks, as she vows to confront her detractors head-on while reaffirming her commitment to her duties as Mayor and President of the Network of Locally Elected Women of Africa (REFELA).
Lowe began her statement by emphasizing her authenticity, declaring, “I am consistently a ‘what you see is what you get’ person. I have never been known to sugar-coat or mince my words. You either love me as I am, or hate me as I am.”
Mayor Lowe, a prominent figure in Gambian politics, made it clear that she has no interest in the United Democratic Party (UDP) flagbearership, dispelling rumors that have fueled much of the criticism against her. “If I wanted it, I would fight tooth and nail for it like I did to become the first female Mayor in The Gambia,” she stated, referencing her historic achievements in Banjul.
The statement comes in response to what Lowe describes as a coordinated effort to tarnish her reputation, particularly through social media attacks and accusations made against her during an ongoing commission investigation into her tenure as Mayor. Lowe singled out one critic, Raffie Diab, whom she accused of relentlessly attacking her for seven years with labels such as “drug dealer,” “witch,” “incompetent,” and most recently, “the most corrupt Mayor in The Gambia.”
Lowe’s response was scathing, accusing Diab of hypocrisy and alleging that he has benefited from projects tied to the UDP while publicly criticizing its leadership. “If corruption and nepotism had a face, it would be his,” she wrote, suggesting that Diab’s actions are driven by personal gain rather than principle.
Lowe’s decision to address Diab directly marks a departure from her previous restraint, which she attributed to respect for his parents. However, she declared that “today begins his unraveling,” signaling her intent to expose what she sees as his double standards. “His loyalty lies in his pocket and what brings him business,” Lowe alleged, dismissing Diab’s political relevance by pointing out that his most notable achievement is printing “Gambia Has Decided” T-shirts during a past political campaign.
The Mayor also addressed the ongoing commission investigating her tenure, acknowledging “procedural missteps” but firmly denying any personal gain. “I have not benefited in cash or kind in any of these processes, and that will be clear in due course,” she asserted, expressing confidence that the truth would emerge. Lowe called for equal scrutiny of others in similar positions, urging the media and public to hold all public officials to the same standard. “I hope the same scrutiny and media attention I have been accorded will be accorded to every other person in my position,” she wrote.
In an effort to distance herself from the toxic political environment, Lowe has withdrawn from most UDP party platforms to preserve her peace of mind. “When the party gets infested with venomous snakes & scorpions, wisdom demands you move,” she stated, underscoring her prioritization of mental well-being over political infighting. Despite her withdrawal from party politics, Lowe made it clear that she remains committed to her responsibilities as Mayor and as REFELA President, roles she intends to fulfill with a focus on building bridges and advancing Banjul’s development.
Lowe’s statement also carried a broader message about the state of Gambian politics, which she described as plagued by “self-entitled attack dogs” who spread falsehoods for personal gain. She accused these individuals of being paid to humiliate political opponents, a practice she believes undermines the country’s democratic process. “This country is ours, and luckily it is small enough for nothing to be hidden under the sun,” she wrote, suggesting that the truth behind such campaigns would eventually come to light.
Lowe issued a warning to her detractors: “I do not want to be forced to let myself go again. History should have taught you that Rohey Malick Lowe will attack when cornered.” While expressing a preference for peace, she made it clear that she is prepared to defend herself without relying on a political camp. “I will fight this battle alone if I have to, and I can assure you that even at your best, you fight a losing battle,” she declared.
Lowe’s statement has sparked widespread discussion on social media, with supporters rallying behind her call for respect and accountability, while critics continue to debate her tenure and the allegations against her. As the commission’s investigation continues, all eyes will be on Banjul to see how this political drama unfolds and whether Lowe’s promise to confront her detractors will reshape the narrative around her legacy.
