President Adama Barrow has kicked off his 2026 Meet the People Tour in Passi Chally, Upper Niumi, where he addressed residents, alliance partners, and local leaders. On October 1, he emphasized that his administration is focused on advancing development, citing a Wollof proverb that says 'going forward is better than going backwards.' Barrow stated that his government is committed to moving forward and does not want to see retardation in development.
Barrow presented the December 5 presidential election as a choice between two options: moving forward or going backwards. He urged voters to make a decision, saying that if they want to go forward, they should vote for him, but if they want to go backwards, they should vote for the opposition. The President warned voters to be careful in their decision, insisting that Gambians want continuity and no one wants to go backwards.
During his address, Barrow accused some opposition politicians of not valuing rural communities. He highlighted that his government has made significant investments in healthcare, including increasing the number of ambulances from 60 in 2017 to 180, including community ambulances for hard-to-reach villages. These community ambulances have drivers and toll-free numbers that can be called when needed.
The introduction of community ambulances was prompted by the challenges faced by women in labor who were being transported by donkey carts due to poor roads. Barrow emphasized that this initiative has improved healthcare services, particularly in rural areas. He also noted that many countries do not have community ambulances, making Gambia a pioneer in this area.
The President's Meet the People Tour will run from October 1 to 19, with project inspections and community engagements. During this tour, Barrow will interact with various stakeholders, including residents, business owners, and community leaders. The tour aims to provide a platform for Barrow to engage with the public and share his vision for the country's development.
Barrow's message to voters is clear: the December 5 election is a choice between progress and retrogression. He emphasized that his government has made significant strides in development and that continuity is essential to sustaining this progress. The President's campaign strategy focuses on highlighting his achievements and engaging with the public to garner support for his re-election.
As the election approaches, Gambians will have to make a decision on December 5. Barrow's call for continuity and progress will likely resonate with some voters, while others may opt for change. The outcome of the election will determine the country's future trajectory, and Barrow's message will likely influence the voting decisions of many Gambians.
Key points
- President Adama Barrow frames the December 5 presidential election as a choice between progress and retrogression.
- Barrow highlights his government's achievements, including the introduction of community ambulances and an increase in the number of ambulances.
- The President's Meet the People Tour aims to engage with the public and share his vision for the country's development.
