Independent Aspirant Abdou Dampha Submits Nomination Papers, Pledges Politics of Hope

By Makutu Manneh

Independent presidential aspirant Abdou Dampha on Monday submitted his nomination papers to the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), pledging to promote a politics of hope, economic inclusion, and equal opportunity ahead of The Gambia’s December 5 presidential election.

Speaking to journalists after submitting his documents, Mr. Dampha acknowledged the development efforts of President Adama Barrow’s administration but argued that the government had placed greater emphasis on political considerations than on policies addressing the needs of ordinary Gambians.

He also criticized opposition parties, accusing them of promoting what he described as a politics of cynicism rather than offering a positive vision for the country’s future.

“So I believe my inclusion in this campaign will bring the people the politics of hope instead of cynicism. I believe that we can create an economy that will work for every citizen and not for the privileged few,” he said.

Mr. Dampha said his presidential bid was driven by a desire to promote inclusive economic growth and ensure that national resources and opportunities benefit all Gambians, particularly vulnerable communities.

He called for greater attention to the needs of the poor, disadvantaged individuals, and orphanages, arguing that more could be done to improve their living conditions.

The independent aspirant also identified access to finance as a major obstacle confronting young people and women seeking to establish or expand businesses.

He pledged to prioritize financial opportunities for youth and women entrepreneurs, saying improved access to capital would help stimulate economic activity, encourage entrepreneurship, and create opportunities for economic advancement.

Mr. Dampha emphasized that his decision to contest the presidency should not be interpreted as a rejection of everything accomplished by the current administration.

He said his political philosophy was rooted in patriotism and egalitarianism, stressing that national development requires recognizing the contributions of individuals and successive governments.

According to him, The Gambia’s former leaders, including Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara and Yahya Jammeh, as well as incumbent President Adama Barrow, deserve recognition for their respective contributions to the country’s development.

He maintained that acknowledging past achievements should not prevent Gambians from pursuing new ideas and policies to address the challenges facing the nation.

Mr. Dampha presented his candidacy as an alternative to the political divisions between the ruling party and the opposition, promising a campaign centered on hope, economic opportunity, and shared national progress.