By: Ousman Saidykhan
The Gambia For All (GFA) held its 3rd National Congress on Saturday at the Friendship Hostel in Bakau, where party leader and Secretary-General Bakary Bunja Dabo celebrated the party’s growing influence in Gambian politics despite significant obstacles.
Addressing delegates from across the country, Dabo underscored the GFA’s resilience in the face of what he described as “daunting challenges” within a political landscape lacking a level playing field.
Dabo attributed the party’s progress to the steadfast commitment of its leadership and the “dogged” spirit of its activists and foot-soldiers. “GFA is growing itself as a significant actor in The Gambia’s political landscape, not without growth pains, given the context within which we operate,” he told the congress. He criticized the democratic environment as one notorious for in-built obstacles and disadvantages stacked against opposition parties, yet affirmed the GFA’s unwavering fidelity to democratic principles and the rule of law.
The GFA leader emphasized the party’s commitment to fostering a progressive state where democratic freedoms are respected and citizens live free from oppression. Dabo highlighted the GFA’s advocacy for a free market economy, which he believes will unlock opportunities for Gambians to realize their full potential and drive national prosperity. “This is the essence of our option as a party to espouse the principles and values of democratic liberalism as our guiding socio-political ideology,” he stated.
Party Chairman Salieu Taal echoed Dabo’s sentiments, describing the GFA as more than a political party but a “movement for genuine change and hope.”
At a crucial juncture in the party’s journey, Taal outlined the formidable challenges facing The Gambia, including a fractured governance system and widespread corruption. He stressed the urgent need for constitutional reform to ensure transparency, accountability, and inclusive representation for all Gambians.
Taal outlined the GFA’s vision, which includes strengthening democracy, ensuring transparent governance, upholding the rule of law, fostering economic growth, creating jobs, supporting small businesses, investing in infrastructure, promoting social justice, combating discrimination, and securing equal rights for all. “A shared vision and unwavering resolve unite us,” he told delegates, emphasizing the party’s commitment to addressing the nation’s pressing issues.
The congress served as a platform for the GFA to reaffirm its goals and rally its supporters ahead of future political contests. Dabo and Taal expressed confidence in the party’s growing strength and potential to lead The Gambia toward a more inclusive and prosperous future. As the GFA continues to navigate the complexities of the country’s political terrain, its leaders remain focused on building a movement that resonates with Gambians seeking systemic change.
The event concluded with a renewed call to action for party members to remain steadfast in pursuing a democratic and equitable Gambia, signaling the GFA’s determination to overcome challenges and cement its role as a formidable force in the nation’s political arena.
