By: Alieu Ceesay
Mai Ahmed Fatty, leader of the Gambia Moral Congress Party (GMCP) and recent returnee to the National People’s Party (NPP), has publicly endorsed President Adama Barrow’s leadership, citing alignment with national development goals.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, the former opposition figure emphasized his commitment to the nation above all.
“I stand firmly behind His Excellency President Adama Barrow, not out of blind loyalty, but because his vision aligns with our shared goals for the Gambia,” Fatty declared. “My support is for the nation first, last, and always.”
Fatty, who previously served as Interior Minister in the Coalition 2016 government and as Security Adviser under Barrow, praised the administration’s infrastructure achievements, including road improvements, bridges, education, healthcare, and energy.
However, he did not hesitate to address shortcomings, pointing to the rising cost of living, bureaucratic inefficiencies, corruption, and slow reforms.
“We are not blind to the struggles our people face,” Fatty said, acknowledging systemic issues inherited from past regimes. “Legacy problems from decades of misrule take time to fix. It cannot be rushed, but neither can it be ignored.”
Expressing concern over public safety, Fatty urged the government to prioritize security. “The security situation is not satisfactory—much has to be done, and the government needs to show more concern,” he stated.
“I know there are serious concerns about personal safety and security issues, and I believe that the security situation is not satisfactory—much has to be done about it, and the government needs to show more concern about it,” the former Interior Minister urged.
Despite criticisms, Fatty commended Barrow’s commitment to tackling pressing issues and vowed to advocate for stronger institutions, transparent procurement, and efficient governance. He also confirmed his full support for the NPP ahead of the 2026 Presidential Election following the rejection of his own candidacy by the Independent Electoral Commission in 2021.
“The government has shown some commitment to tackle pressing issues,” he said, adding, “I pledge to continue advocating for stronger institutions, transparent procurement, and efficient governance.”
Fatty’s endorsement may boost Barrow as the ruling party prepares for the upcoming electoral contest.
