Barrow Rallies Supporters for Nomination, Makes Fresh Appeal to Darboe to Join NPP

By Makutu Manneh

President Adama Barrow has urged his supporters to turn out in large numbers for his presidential nomination on November 10, while renewing his invitation to United Democratic Party (UDP) leader Ousainu Darboe to join the ruling National People’s Party (NPP) Grand Alliance ahead of the December 5 presidential election.

Speaking at State House during a ceremony welcoming WAREF into the NPP Grand Alliance, President Barrow called for an unprecedented show of support on nomination day, describing the occasion as an opportunity for his supporters to demonstrate their political strength, commitment, and love for The Gambia.

He encouraged supporters from across the country to attend, regardless of transportation challenges, warning that vehicles could be in short supply because of the anticipated turnout.

The president urged supporters to make their way to the nomination venue by whatever means available, including bicycles, motorcycles, wheelchairs, or on foot, insisting that no one should be left behind.

Turning to his former political ally and UDP leader Ousainu Darboe, President Barrow renewed his appeal for the veteran opposition politician to join the NPP-led alliance.

He suggested that Mr. Darboe’s advancing age and declining physical strength made it appropriate for him to step away from active political leadership, saying he wanted to honor his former political mentor and allow him to rest.

“I do not want my bus to depart before my father, Ousainu Darboe, joins. I want him to enter the bus, honor him, for him to rest and us to work and give it to him,” President Barrow said.

The president maintained that his doors remained open to Mr. Darboe and urged him to accept the invitation before it was too late, warning that joining the alliance could become more difficult if he delayed his decision.

President Barrow’s latest appeal comes as both leaders prepare for the December presidential election, in which they are political rivals.

The president also framed the upcoming election as a choice between continued national development and what he described as a return to backwardness.

He argued that his administration’s record in infrastructure and public service delivery justified another term in office, citing improvements in electricity, road connectivity, water supply, education and healthcare.

President Barrow also pointed to increases in public-sector salaries and the maintenance of peace and stability as achievements of his government.

He maintained that voters seeking continued progress in these sectors should support his re-election, presenting his candidacy as a guarantee of continuity and further development.

The president expressed confidence in the strength of the NPP Grand Alliance as it continues to welcome political groups and mobilize supporters ahead of the December 5 vote.