Barrow Files Nomination Papers, Pledges New Constitution With Term Limits if NPP Secures Assembly Majority

By Makutu Manneh

President Adama Barrow on Tuesday submitted his nomination papers to the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) ahead of the December 5 presidential election, pledging to introduce a new constitution with presidential term limits if his party secures the parliamentary majority required to pass it.

Speaking to journalists after filing his nomination papers, President Barrow addressed the ongoing debate over presidential term limits, maintaining that while he supports the principle, Gambian voters should ultimately determine how long a president remains in office.

“But I believe in term limits, and the Gambian people are to elect a president; they decide the fate of a president,” he said.

Mr. Barrow argued that presidential term limits should not be regarded as the sole measure of a country’s democratic credentials, citing the United Kingdom and Germany as examples of established democracies without fixed term limits for their heads of government.

He maintained that he had consistently expressed support for term limits but questioned whether they necessarily represented the best approach to democratic governance.

The president said his administration would deliver a new constitution incorporating presidential term limits if the National People’s Party (NPP) secured a sufficient majority in the National Assembly to meet the constitutional threshold for its passage.

His remarks come amid renewed debate over constitutional reform and presidential tenure as The Gambia prepares for another presidential election.

Turning to his priorities for the next five years, President Barrow pledged to continue implementing his administration’s Yiriwa development agenda, focusing on infrastructure, economic opportunities, agricultural modernization, and institutional reforms.

He identified the preservation of peace and stability as a central priority, describing national unity and social cohesion as essential foundations for sustainable development.

The president said his administration would expand road networks and electricity infrastructure to improve connectivity and ensure greater access to essential public services, particularly healthcare and education.

He also pledged to modernize agriculture, improve farmers’ access to markets, and strengthen food security through investments aimed at increasing productivity and supporting rural communities.

On youth development, Mr. Barrow said his government would prioritize human capital development, equipping young Gambians with the skills and opportunities needed to pursue self-employment and participate more effectively in the country’s economy.

He further promised to strengthen public institutions through improved policies, legislation, and adherence to the rule of law, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a democratic environment.

Concluding his remarks, President Barrow appealed to Gambians and all residents of the country to respect the law, preserve peace, and promote national unity throughout the electoral period.

He emphasized that political differences should not undermine the country’s shared identity, reminding citizens that The Gambia remains one nation.