The true test of any democracy lies in its capacity to elevate the condition of its people. By this measure, The Gambia continues to stumble, searching for a leader who can free its citizens from the shackles of poor governance and poverty.
Unfortunately, President Adama Barrow, once a symbol of hope after the dramatic fall of Yahya Jammeh in 2016, has missed the opportunity to deliver meaningful change. Instead, his leadership has derailed, and his government is now defined by failures, corruption, and division.
The Failed Promise of Leadership
In 2016, Gambians voted for change, rejecting dictatorship and demanding a future marked by progress, justice, and equality. However, President Barrow has failed to fulfill his promises. The dreams of constitutional reform, security sector transformation, transitional justice, and term limits have been abandoned. Instead of ushering in a modern state, Barrow’s administration has entrenched economic stagnation, rising inflation, and unchecked corruption.
Political selfishness and toxic leadership have corroded the nation’s foundations. These failures, coupled with Barrow’s inability to inspire trust or confidence, have left Gambians disillusioned. The president’s approval ratings are at an all-time low, and he is increasingly seen as unfit to steer the country toward a brighter future.
A Nation Divided by Tribal Rhetoric
One of the most troubling aspects of Barrow’s presidency is his reliance on divisive tribal rhetoric. Recent attacks on the Mandinka tribe are emblematic of a broader strategy to sow discord and distract from his government’s failures. By pitting tribes against one another, Barrow is pursuing narrow political interests at the expense of national unity. This tactic, reminiscent of Yahya Jammeh’s divide-and-rule strategy, threatens to ignite tensions in a country already grappling with economic and social instability.
Rather than addressing the real challenges facing Gambians, Barrow has turned to propaganda, scapegoating opposition parties like the United Democratic Party (UDP) and its leader, Ousainou Darboe. This strategy has further polarised the political landscape, making it harder to build consensus or enact reforms.
The Erosion of Democracy
Barrow’s government is systematically narrowing The Gambia’s democratic space. Critics are silenced, power is centralised, and institutions are weakened. These actions are chilling echoes of the Jammeh era, raising fears that The Gambia may be sliding back into authoritarianism. The president’s push for a third term underscores this dangerous trend, as it signals a willingness to override democratic principles for personal gain.
Barrow’s failures are compounded by his inability to communicate effectively with the public. His lack of transparency and involvement in scandals have undermined any credibility he once had. Gambians, especially the diaspora, have taken to social media to express their frustration, amplifying calls for accountability and change.
A Fragile Democracy at a Crossroads
Despite these challenges, The Gambia’s democratic structures, though weak, have shown resilience. The question is whether this resistance can withstand the mounting pressures of Barrow’s leadership. Gambians face a critical decision: allow the president to continue eroding democratic gains or demand a return to the values that drove Jammeh’s ouster in 2016.
The country is at a crossroads. With economic struggles, political divisions, and a toxic climate of tribalism, The Gambia risks becoming a tinderbox. If Barrow succeeds in his quest for a third term, the consequences could be dire.
Finally
Barrow’s transformation from a humble real estate agent to an arrogant and divisive leader is a cautionary tale. The dreams of unity, progress, and good governance that once inspired Gambians have been replaced by despair. However, it is not too late to change course.
The Gambian people must rise above tribal politics and hold their leaders accountable. Unity, vigilance, and determination are essential to safeguarding the nation’s democratic future. Only then can The Gambia move beyond its current failures and realise the promise of the 2016 ouster of the brutal dictatorship of Yahya Jammeh.
The question remains though: will Gambians allow President Barrow to drag the country further into division and dictatorship, or will they demand a new chapter of leadership and hope?
Editors note: Ebrima Scattred Janneh “EB” is the Anchor of The Dialogue With The Youths Show on Gunjuronline TV.
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