As The Gambia approaches the presidential election scheduled for December 5, 2026, President Adama Barrow’s determination to seek a third term has ignited fierce debate and widespread concern. Elected in 2016 as a coalition candidate promising a three-year transition to end Yahya Jammeh’s 22-year dictatorship, Barrow has since reneged on that pledge, won re-election in 2021, and now insists on running again under his National People’s Party (NPP). While legally permissible under the 1997 Constitution—which imposes no presidential term limits—this move raises profound questions about the health of the nation’s fragile democracy.
The controversy stems from Barrow’s broken promises and the stalled constitutional reform process. In 2016, Barrow was selected as the opposition coalition’s flagbearer on the explicit understanding that he would serve only a transitional term to usher in reforms, including a new constitution with term limits. Gambians celebrated his victory as a breakthrough for democratic change after decades of authoritarian rule. Yet, attempts to enact a new constitution have repeatedly failed. A 2020 draft, which included a retroactive two-term limit that would have barred Barrow from further runs, was rejected by lawmakers allied with him. A revised 2024-2025 draft, removing the retroactive clause but still imposing limits prospectively, was also voted down in July 2025. The 1997 Constitution, a relic of Jammeh’s era, remains in force, allowing unlimited terms.
Barrow’s defenders argue that his bid is constitutional and justified by development achievements, such as infrastructure projects and improved international relations. He has warned against any attempts to block his candidacy, dismissing critics as “cowards” who were silent under Jammeh and urging supporters to reject opposition inducements. Surveys, however, reveal public unease: a 2025 poll by Gambia Participates and the Centre for Policy Research and Strategic Studies found that 55% of Gambians believe Barrow should not contest a third term, with opposition strongest among younger voters.
Critics, including civil society groups like the Edward Francis Small Centre for Rights and Justice, opposition leaders, and Political analysts, view this as a betrayal of democratic principles. They argue that even without explicit limits, pursuing a third term violates the “spirit of democracy” and risks entrenching power in a country still healing from Jammeh’s abuses. Prolonged rule, they warn, could erode institutions, fuel instability, and invite unrest—echoing patterns seen across Africa where third-term bids have sparked protests and violence. The fragmented opposition, while fielding candidates like UDP’s Ousainou Darboe, struggles to unite, potentially handing Barrow an advantage despite public discontent.
Gambia’s democracy remains vulnerable. Post-Jammeh reforms, including the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission, have advanced justice and freedom of expression—Yet persistent issues such as corruption allegations, economic hardships, and delayed anti-corruption measures undermine trust. Allowing one leader to extend tenure indefinitely threatens to reverse these gains, normalizing self-perpetuating rule under the guise of legality.
President Barrow’s legacy as the man who defeated a dictator is at stake. By stepping aside after two terms—totaling ten years—he could cement his place as a statesman who prioritized national interest over personal ambition—insisting on a third term, however, risks tarnishing that legacy and plunging The Gambia into unnecessary turmoil.
The ultimate safeguard lies with the Gambian people. Voters must demand accountability, unity among opposition forces, and renewed commitment to term limits in any future constitution. Civil society and media should vigilantly monitor the process to ensure free and fair elections. International partners, who supported the 2017 transition, must reiterate the importance of democratic norms.
The Gambia has come too far to slide backward. A peaceful transfer of power in 2026 would strengthen institutions and inspire the region. President Barrow has the opportunity to lead by example—or risk becoming the architect of his country’s democratic regression. The choice is his, but the consequences belong to all Gambians.
