By: Momodou Gagigo
Former Vice President Fatoumata Jallow-Tambajang has launched a scathing attack on President Adama Barrow’s political engagements with allies of ex-dictator Yahya Jammeh, labeling them “unethical” and detrimental to victims of the former regime’s abuses.
Tambajang – who announced her 2026 presidential candidacy earlier this year – hosted an engaging session titled “A Chat with Youth Influencers,” bringing together young digital creators, influencers, and leaders for open discussions on national challenges and her vision for Gambia’s youth.
In a strongly worded critique, Tambajang accused Barrow of prioritizing personal gain over national healing, particularly by highlighting the appointment of Alliance for Patriotic Reorientation and Construction (APRC) members to key positions, such as Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly.
“I think bringing APRC as Speaker and Deputy Speaker is a slap to the nation,” she declared. “He did it for his personal interest.”
Tambajang, who served as Barrow’s vice president from 2017 to 2018 and played a pivotal role in the 2016 coalition that ousted Jammeh, argued that the APRC – Jammeh’s former party – should face a minimum five-year ban from political activities. Such a measure, she said, would allow trauma survivors time to heal and protect the fragile transitional justice process.
Her comments come amid Barrow’s ongoing alliance with a faction of the APRC, forged after the 2022 parliamentary elections to secure a majority. Critics have long viewed this pact as a betrayal of the post-Jammeh democratic promises, reopening old wounds for victims still awaiting full reparations and accountability.
Outlining ambitious plans, Tambajang pledged reforms to the Youth Service Scheme, bolstering the National Youth Council, expanding training programs, and enhancing support for youth entrepreneurship through funding, mentorship, and skills development.
Participants shared insights on pressing issues, contributing ideas to potential policies. The dialogue underscored Tambajang’s focus on empowering young Gambians as partners in development, positioning her as a champion of inclusive governance ahead of the polls.
Tambajang’s remarks intensify debates over reconciliation versus justice as the 2026 presidential election approaches, with Barrow eligible for another term and Jammeh’s potential return from exile looming as a divisive issue.
As political tensions rise, Tambajang’s dual stance – confronting Barrow’s alliances while rallying the youth vote – highlights deepening divisions in The Gambia’s evolving democracy.
