By Buba Gagigo
President Adama Barrow on Tuesday defended his administration against criticism from media outlets and private citizens, asserting that his 2016 electoral victory paved the way for the very freedoms his detractors now exercise.
Speaking at a meeting with the Mandinka Society held at the State House, Mr. Barrow accused certain media owners and individuals of taking advantage of the democratic space that emerged following the end of former President Yahya Jammeh’s authoritarian rule.
“They go on radio and make bold statements — they criticize the president and say all sorts of negative things about my government,” Mr. Barrow said. “But all of them were in hiding during Jammeh’s time. Some even fled to the Diaspora. My victory is the reason they are able to return and speak freely today.”
The president singled out radio stations that, in his view, have become platforms for personal attacks against him. “All the radios that are criticizing me today were silent or absent during Jammeh’s time. It is because of my win in 2016 that they are operating in the country,” he said.
Mr. Barrow’s remarks reflect growing tensions between his administration and sections of the Gambian media, some of whom have become increasingly vocal about governance and accountability since the fall of the Jammeh regime.
In the same meeting, Mr. Barrow announced a new government initiative aimed at modernizing agriculture through the introduction of 200 tractors.
“We will bring 200 tractors into the country,” the president said. “Under the new scheme, the government will subsidize 25 percent of the cost, the buyer will deposit 25 percent upfront, and the remaining 50 percent will be paid over a period of four years.”
The president emphasized that the program is intended to support local farmers and enhance productivity across the agricultural sector.
President Barrow’s comments come amid heightened political debate in the country as the Gambia continues to navigate its post-dictatorship democratic transition.