The incumbent President of The Gambia, Adama Barrow, aged 61, officially submitted his nomination papers on Tuesday, November 10, for a third term at the head of the country to the Independent Electoral Commission in Banjul, under the banner of the National People’s Party (NPP)
Following this administrative formality, Barrow addressed Gambian citizens to unveil the main outlines of his political platform for the next five-year term, centered on continuity and development.
In his statements broadcast on Wednesday on his Facebook account, incumbent President Barrow indicated that the next five years of his governance will be a direct continuation of the “Yiriwa” program, which means “growth” in a local language. This action plan is built on infrastructure and social services. The NPP candidate promises to expand road and electricity networks across the country, and to improve connectivity in order to facilitate communities’ access to health and education facilities.
Regarding agriculture and food security, Barrow’s program provides for the modernization of the agricultural sector as well as better market access for local producers. Concerning youth and employment, the Head of State pledges to invest in human capacity building to enable young Gambians to create their own employment opportunities and participate in the country’s economic growth.
Barrow’s program also provides for the consolidation of national institutions through the adoption of “good policies” and respect for the law within a democratic framework. “Ever forward, never backward!” he chanted, adding, “I am ready to continue serving you: with more experience, a clearer vision, and an unwavering commitment to your prosperity.”
While the presidential election will be held on December 5, the incumbent President—who had nonetheless pledged in 2021 not to run again—called on the population to approach this electoral period “with peace, unity, and respect” for democratic institutions. “Let us protect what we have built and continue to build together,” he concluded.