By Alieu Ceesay
Dr. Brahima Mbodje, a distinguished Professor of Mathematics, Computing Science, and Cybersecurity, has issued a clarion call to Gambian opposition leaders to unite and form a coalition to challenge President Adama Barrow’s administration in the upcoming elections.
Speaking on The Final Take with MK EP22 Sat 24th May 2025 – YouTube, a weekly program hosted by the Alkamba Times’s Chief Editor, Sainey Marenah, Dr. Mbodje emphasized the urgent need for opposition parties to set aside differences and work together to “rid us of the current administration” for the sake of the nation’s future.
“For the love of the country, I think they should come together and rid us of the current administration,” Dr. Mbodje stated. “How they would do that is to come together, at least temporarily, just for the sake of winning the election in a coalition where one of them would be selected to lead.
Dr. Mbodje’s remarks come amid growing concerns about governance under President Barrow, whose administration he criticized for its struggles with law enforcement and combating corruption. “The primary role of the government is to make sure that the laws are applied, to ensure that corruption is brought to non-existence, and then to empower the population,” he said. While acknowledging the administration’s achievements in infrastructure development, such as improved roads and hospitals, he argued that these efforts are overshadowed by systemic issues that threaten the country’s long-term stability.
The professor’s critique focused heavily on corruption, which he described as a critical barrier to Gambia’s progress. He stressed that eradicating corruption must be a priority to ensure sustainable development and empower citizens. “Infrastructure is critical for the well-being of citizens, but the fight against corruption is fundamental for the country’s long-term health,” Dr. Mbodje warned.
In addition to governance reforms, Dr. Mbodje called for a comprehensive overhaul of Gambia’s education sector. He argued that the current system fails to meet the population’s needs and urged the government to prioritize education reform to foster economic growth and innovation. “A restructured education sector is essential to prepare our youth for the challenges of the future,” he said.
Dr. Mbodje’s call for an opposition coalition has sparked debate across the political spectrum. He envisions a unified front where opposition leaders select a single candidate through a democratic process to lead the alliance, increasing their chances of electoral success. However, forming such a coalition could prove challenging, given the history of factionalism among Gambia’s opposition parties.
Political analysts suggest Dr. Mbodje’s proposal could reshape the political landscape if opposition leaders heed his advice. The professor’s academic credentials and reputation as a thought leader lend weight to his call. However, some critics argue that uniting the opposition will require overcoming significant ideological and personal differences.
As Gambia approaches its next election cycle, Dr. Mbodje’s remarks have ignited discussions about the feasibility of a coalition and the broader state of governance in the country. Supporters believe a united opposition could pose a formidable challenge to Barrow’s National People’s Party (NPP), which has faced criticism for handling economic and social issues.
The Barrow administration has yet to respond officially to Dr. Mbodje’s comments, but the professor’s outspoken critique will likely intensify scrutiny of the government’s performance. With corruption, education, and governance at the forefront of public discourse, the pressure is mounting for meaningful reforms.
Dr. Mbodje’s appearance on The Final Talk amplified his message and highlighted the role of intellectual voices in shaping Gambia’s political future. As the nation grapples with its challenges, the call for unity and reform resonates as a potential turning point in the quest for a more transparent and prosperous Gambia.
Whether opposition leaders will rally behind Dr. Mbodje’s vision remains to be seen, but his words have undoubtedly set the stage for a critical conversation ahead of the elections.
