By Seedy Jobe
Omar Jatto Jammeh, the independent National Assembly member for Janjanbureh, on Friday formally aligned himself with the ruling National People’s Party, saying his decision to defect was motivated by the government’s development agenda and his desire to advance the interests of his constituents.
Mr. Jammeh made the announcement after meeting with President Adama Barrow at the State House in Banjul, marking a notable shift for a lawmaker who entered Parliament without party affiliation.
Speaking to reporters shortly after the meeting, Mr. Jammeh said his move reflected a broader commitment to national progress rather than personal ambition.
“The purpose of the visit was really very positive,” he said. “It was to recognize the developments in the country and also to discuss concerns around the community, as well as my necessity to support that idea.”
He emphasized that joining the ruling party was, in his view, a practical step toward accelerating development projects in Janjanbureh and strengthening cooperation with the central government.
“For me, joining or affiliating myself is not just about myself,” he said. “This is about helping to push the development of this community.”
Asked about the political significance of his decision, Mr. Jammeh described the move as both a personal and public responsibility, saying it reflected the wishes of his constituents as well as his confidence in the governing party’s direction.
“This is a welcoming development,” he said, “in terms of seeing myself affiliated with the party and also listening to those who put me into office.”
His defection adds to a series of realignments in Gambian politics as the nation prepares for the December 5th 2026 presidential elections.
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