By Makutu Manneh
President Adama Barrow on Saturday pledged a new phase of accelerated national development if re-elected in 2026, as he presided over the launch of a 75.7-kilometer feeder road in the North Bank Region.
Framing the upcoming election as a pivotal moment, Mr. Barrow cast himself as the candidate best positioned to deliver tangible improvements, telling supporters that he would lead an ambitious infrastructure drive between 2027 and 2031.
“This is an election year,” he said. “Everyone is making noise, but I believe, for the people of The Gambia, I am your wrestler.”
Mr. Barrow said his administration would prioritize road construction in a second term, arguing that expanded road networks would improve access to health care, strengthen security, and boost agricultural productivity. “From 2027 to 2031, my focus will be on roads,” he said.
He also pointed to gains in electrification, estimating that about 90 percent of the country now has access to electricity, with efforts underway to reach the remaining areas.
The president urged young people to take a more active role in national development, encouraging self-reliance and civic responsibility. He criticized what he described as unproductive habits, saying that “sitting in ghettos, drinking attaya and complaining” would not lead to progress.
Mr. Barrow added that while the government’s role is to provide essential infrastructure and maintain stability — including electricity, roads, hospitals, ferries, tractors, and educational facilities — broader economic advancement depends on the efforts of citizens themselves.
His remarks come as political activity intensifies ahead of the 2026 presidential election, with candidates positioning themselves around competing visions for the country’s development.
Comments are closed.