Barrow Defends Political Remarks on Nationwide Tour, Says Governance and Politics Are Inseparable

By Makutu Manneh

President Adama Barrow has defended making political statements during his ongoing Meet-the-People tour, arguing that politics is inseparable from governance and national development.

Speaking on Thursday at a public meeting in Bansang, as part of his constitutionally mandated nationwide tour, Mr. Barrow dismissed criticism that he was using an official government exercise to engage in political campaigning.

He argued that government initiatives, including the construction of schools and roads, fertilizer distribution and the expansion of electricity access, are products of political leadership.

“Everything they are doing is politics, then why can’t the president do politics? But my politics and theirs are different,” Mr. Barrow said.

The president drew a distinction between his approach to politics, which he characterized as focused on delivering tangible benefits to citizens, and that of his critics, whom he accused of relying on rhetoric rather than results.

As an example, he cited a new accident and emergency ward at Bansang Hospital, which he said was built by his wife at a cost of 27 million dalasis.

He claimed that no comparable facility had been established at the hospital during the colonial era or under the administrations of former Presidents Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara and Yahya Jammeh, who governed for 32 and 22 years, respectively.

Mr. Barrow assured residents that his administration remained committed to addressing their concerns but urged patience as the government worked to meet their development needs.

He also warned voters against politicians who distribute cash, motorcycles and T-shirts during election campaigns, accusing them of attempting to influence voters through material inducements.

“Some of these politicians have no knowledge of farming and the challenges faced by farmers. How can such people help you?” he asked.

Turning to the December 2026 presidential election, Mr. Barrow framed the contest as a choice between continued development and a return to the past.

He urged Gambians to support his re-election, presenting his administration as the vehicle for sustaining the country’s progress.