Barrow Gives D500,000 to Drifters, Warns Against Opposition Politicians

By Makutu Manneh

President Adama Barrow has presented D500,000 to a group of young motorsport enthusiasts, popularly known as drifters, who visited him at State House on Friday. He urged them to work closely with the government and cautioned against what he described as attempts by opposition politicians to exploit their interests for political gain.

Addressing members of the Gambia Motorsports Association, President Barrow described the government as their most important partner and encouraged them to scrutinize the records of politicians seeking their support.

“Let nobody deceive you; your most important partner is government. I know politicians will come to you, and politicians only know their interest, but if they come to you, ask them what have they done,” he said.

The president also urged the young drifters to respect the law, emphasizing that no individual, including the head of state, was above it.

He cited the upcoming presidential election and his participation in the campaign as examples of his commitment to constitutional and democratic processes.

Mr. Barrow said that, as commander-in-chief, he exercised authority over the country’s security institutions, including the police, military, immigration, and paramilitary services, but maintained that such powers did not place him above the law.

He assured the group that his administration was prepared to support their activities, provided that any assistance or arrangements complied with established legal procedures.

Turning to motorsports, President Barrow acknowledged drifting as a legitimate sporting activity with economic potential but stressed that it must be conducted in a safe and regulated environment.

He cautioned participants against performing drifting activities on public roads, citing the need to protect both drivers and other road users.

The president pledged that the government would work toward identifying and designating a suitable location where drifting competitions and exhibitions could take place safely, with appropriate security arrangements for participants and spectators.

He said the large turnout accompanying the Gambia Motorsports Association to State House demonstrated the sport’s growing popularity and potential.

According to Mr. Barrow, the enthusiasm shown by the young motorists underscored the need for cooperation between the association and relevant government institutions to develop the sport.

He encouraged members to maintain close engagement with the government to help establish the necessary facilities and regulatory framework.

The president also used the occasion to highlight what he described as significant achievements in Gambian sports under his administration.

He pointed to The Gambia’s two qualifications for the Africa Cup of Nations, noting that the senior national football team had never reached the continental tournament before his presidency.

Mr. Barrow also cited the performances of the country’s under-20 and under-17 national football teams in international competitions as evidence of progress in sports development.

He further highlighted Gambian athletes’ participation in the Olympic Games, presenting it as part of the broader improvements recorded during his tenure.

The president maintained that his administration had overseen considerable development in the sporting sector and urged Gambians to acknowledge those achievements.

His remarks come as the country prepares for the December 5 presidential election, in which Mr. Barrow is seeking another term in office.