By: Alieu Ceesay
Scores of Gambians, including key political figures and civil society leaders, have vehemently denounced President Barrow’s remarks about the death of UDP Leader Ousainou Darboe, made late Saturday in Brikama. In his statement, he targeted Darboe, declaring that he would remain President of The Gambia until Darboe’s death, claiming to have signed a contract to that effect.
Gambians have widely condemned Barrow’s remarks. Prominent among them are Essa Faal, former TRRC Lead Counsel and 2021 Presidential candidate; UDP Regional mayors in Rohey Malick Lowe; Talib Ahmed Bensuoda, West Coast Region Chairman; Yankuba Darboe; Rights Activist Madi Jobarteh; and many others.
“I will be president until Ousainou Darboe dies; as far as he is alive, I will be the President,” President Barrow said at the Brikama NPP political Bureau opening on Saturday.
Reacting to the President’s comment, Essa Faal said: “I am deeply dismayed by President Adama Barrow’s recent offensive remarks towards Hon. Ousainou Darboe, leader of the United Democratic Party. Such language has no place in our political discourse, and I stand with fellow Gambians in condemning this troubling statement.
While political differences are natural, they must not lead to vile remarks, especially from a Head of State. It is crucial for leaders to uphold civility, respect, and decency, especially during times of political tension and economic challenges.”
The UDP Brikama Area Council Chairman, Yankuba Darboe, described President Barrow’s comments as shocking.
“Yesterday, 27th July 2024, whilst at a political meeting or rally in Brikama Town, President Adama Barrow issued a vile threat against the life of the Gambian opposition leader Lawyer Ousainou Darboe confessing that he had signed a contract to ensure that Lawyer Ousainou Darboe is no more and buried before he resigns from power.
Thus, all should note that if anything should happen to Lawyer Darboe before Adama Barrow leaves power, Adama Barrow will be held personally responsible.”
Madi Jobarteh, a prominent human rights activist, is also concerned about Barrow’s remarks.
“I stand with Ousainou Darboe against the indecent, dangerous, undemocratic & unconstitutional insult against him by Pres. Barrow. I demand the National Assembly summon the President to discipline or impeach him for such unconstitutional remarks.”
Bubacarr M Kanteh Councilor Kartong Ward described the statement as “irresponsible, unacceptable, and must be condemned by all.”
Kartong Ward Councilor urged all Gambians to make strong statements condemning Adama Borrow’s irresponsible words.
“This is very, very unfortunate from The President of the Gambian. This is just unacceptable. I’m just disappointed,” Muhammad Bah commented.
Rohey Malick Lowe, Mayor of Banjul City Council, stressed that the President’s statement was uncalled; she asked President Barrow to withdraw it with an apology for Unity within the Gambian population.
“Therefore, I would implore the President to withdraw his statement and apologize to H.E. Darboe and the Gambian people for his unfortunate statement. I wish to also seize this opportunity to encourage us all to continue to promote peace and avoid making such divisive statements. Such statements not only undermine our democracy but can also incite division and hatred, which is detrimental to the Unity we all strive for.”
Musa Ousainou Yali Batchilly, leader of the Gambia Action Party, said: “It is vital to recognize that today’s opponents, including former supporters, deserve protection and respect under your leadership. Lead with compassion, integrity, and commitment to the values of our constitution, focusing on the well-being of all Gambians.
Mayor Tallib Ahmed Bensouda of KMC also reacted and said the President could have addressed pressing issues the country is currently facing, which include rampant use of illicit drugs, Illegal migrants, and Skyrocketing Basic commodities, among others.
“The President’s insidious statements disrupt the peace, tranquility, and stability of the country and must be condemned by all politicians, religious leaders, and well-meaning citizens in all corners of this country,” said Talib Bensouda, Mayor of Kanifing Municipality.
Yahya Sonko, a Migration & Human Rights Activist, also added his voice to the growing condemnation. ” As concerned citizens and patriots of The Gambia, we are deeply troubled by President Adama Barrow’s recent statements during a political rally. In them, he reportedly expressed a desire for the death of a political rival, Ousainou Darboe, and vowed to remain in power until such an event occurred. These comments are not only deeply inappropriate and unbecoming of a head of State, but they also pose a serious threat to the peace, stability, and democratic values of our nation.”
