NCCE Calls on Political Leaders to Condemn Hate Speech and Ethnic Rhetoric

By Fatou Sillah

The National Council for Civic Education has urged political leaders and parties to publicly denounce hate speech, ethnic rhetoric, and inflammatory remarks, warning that increasingly divisive public discourse could threaten The Gambia’s peace and social cohesion.

Speaking at a news conference, the council’s chairman, Momodou A. Sise, expressed concern over what he described as a steady rise in identity-based polarization, insults, and inflammatory language in political and public discussions.

“Political parties and party leaders in whose name and defense such acts are committed must not remain silent,” Mr. Sise said. “They must publicly condemn, distance themselves and their parties from such dangerous action.”

Mr. Sise said the council was particularly troubled that some of the rhetoric had come from political figures, people in positions of authority, and religious leaders—individuals whose influence, he said, carries a greater responsibility to promote tolerance and national unity.

He warned that divisive rhetoric could deepen mistrust and reopen old divisions in a country still working to strengthen its democratic institutions and social cohesion.

The council welcomed recent apologies from some individuals over controversial remarks but said the episodes underscored the need for greater restraint and responsibility from public figures.

Mr. Sise called on politicians, public officials, religious leaders, and other influential figures to refrain from statements or conduct that could undermine peace, unity, and stability.

He also appealed to Gambians to remain calm and reject attempts to divide the country along political or ethnic lines, saying a shared national identity should take precedence over partisan loyalties.

The appeal comes as political activity intensifies ahead of the December presidential election, with concerns growing over the tone of political discourse and the potential for inflammatory rhetoric to heighten tensions.