A group of concerned Gambian citizens has launched a nationwide campaign opposing President Adama Barrow’s potential third term in the 2026 presidential election, denouncing his reliance on the 1997 Constitution as a betrayal of the democratic transition he promised.
In a statement released, activist Kemo Fatty, speaking on behalf of the group, declared: “No to a third term- Gambia decides 2026.”
Fatty, a prominent environmentalist and founder of Green-Up Gambia who recently announced his own presidential candidacy, emphasized that the campaign stems from “principle, memory, and responsibility to our democracy,” not personal or partisan motives.
President Barrow, elected in 2016 on a coalition promise of a three-year transitional term and sweeping reforms, has signaled his intention to seek re-election in 2026 under his National People’s Party. The move, legally permitted under the 1997 Constitution—which imposes no presidential term limits—has sparked widespread criticism. Critics argue it contradicts Barrow’s initial pledges to introduce a new constitution with term limits, replacing the framework associated with former dictator Yahya Jammeh’s 22-year rule.
Fatty condemned Barrow’s use of the 1997 document as “ethically indefensible,” stating it disrespects the sacrifices made to end authoritarianism, including those who died, were exiled, or silenced. “To bank political ambition on it is to disrespect the struggle,” he said.
The statement urged Barrow to demonstrate “statesmanship” by publicly committing not to contest in 2026, warning that extending power risks eroding democratic norms in a nation still healing from Jammeh’s era.
Highlighting concerns over suppressed civic expression, the group announced an online campaign to mobilize Gambians at home and in the diaspora. “When physical protest is constrained, digital resistance becomes legitimate civic action,” Fatty noted, framing it as a peaceful call for accountability rather than chaos.
The initiative uses the hashtags #NoToThirdTerm, #GambiaDecides2026, and #DefendDemocracy, calling for a new constitution and rejecting “recycled constitutions of oppression.”
Barrow’s third-term bid has drawn outrage from opposition parties, civil society, and analysts, who fear it jeopardizes post-Jammeh gains. A recent poll showed a majority opposition to his candidacy, though he remains a frontrunner amid fragmented opposition.
