Dr. Muhammad Ibn Chambas, founder of IDEAS, recently visited State House in Gambia to brief President Adama Barrow on the organization's efforts to promote a peaceful and credible election. During the meeting, Dr. Chambas shared the findings of an IDEAS study, which revealed that Gambia's democratic ranking has improved. President Barrow expressed his delight at the news and reaffirmed his commitment to consolidating democracy and maintaining an open democratic space.
President Barrow highlighted the country's progress in press freedom, noting that citizens are able to freely express their opinions through daily political debates broadcast on mass media outlets. He also emphasized his administration's focus on developing the country's infrastructure. The meeting between Dr. Chambas and President Barrow aimed to engage all political stakeholders in creating a conducive environment for a peaceful and credible election as Gambia enters the political season.
IDEAS briefed President Barrow on its initiative to work closely with the Independent Electoral Commission to ensure peace and stability during the election period. The group agreed on the need for a code of conduct to guide the process and promote a peaceful campaign. Dr. Chambas emphasized that the election period should be a time of competition of ideas, rather than violence and destabilization.
President Barrow, who has been recognized as one of the most tolerant presidents in Africa, has ensured that no political, media, or civil society actor has been jailed during his ten-year leadership. He is determined to maintain this legacy and has pledged to ensure a credible and peaceful election. The President, who received the "African Promoter of Peace in Africa 2024" award, called for a peaceful campaign and urged stakeholders to discuss, debate, and sell their messages to the electorate.
President Barrow emphasized that the people have the final say in determining the winner and loser of the election and that all stakeholders must accept the people's verdict. He appreciated Dr. Chambas' support for the Gambian people and expressed gratitude for his efforts. The President also renewed his call to religious leaders to continue promoting peaceful coexistence in the country.
Dr. Chambas urged all political actors, their supporters, and citizens to uphold peace during the election period. He emphasized that the period should be one of competition of ideas, rather than violence and destabilization. The meeting between Dr. Chambas and President Barrow reflects the government's commitment to ensuring a peaceful and credible election in Gambia.
President Barrow's administration has made significant progress in promoting democracy and peace in Gambia. The country's improved democratic ranking is a testament to the government's efforts to consolidate democracy and promote an open democratic space. As Gambia prepares for the upcoming election, stakeholders are expected to work together to ensure a peaceful and credible process.
Key points
- President Adama Barrow has pledged to ensure a credible and peaceful election in Gambia.
- IDEAS has been working to promote a peaceful and credible election in Gambia by engaging all political stakeholders.
- Gambia's democratic ranking has improved, according to an IDEAS study.
