By: Sering Mass Jallow
The National Assembly Member for Banjul South, Fatoumatta Touma Njie, has warned that The Gambia will not only sink but disappear should President Adama Barrow secure a third term in office. Speaking in a lengthy interview on West Coast Radio, Njie issued a stark warning about the country’s future under the current administration. She expressed deep concern over the country’s direction, asserting that if Barrow successfully secures a third term, “The country will not only sink but will disappear.”
“I think that come 2026, if Barrow should win this election again, The Gambia will not sink, but will disappear. We want a country where the next generation will inherit dignity,” she said.
While the lawmaker acknowledged fewer human rights violations under the current administration compared to the former regime, she argued that corruption under Barrow’s government is far more widespread and unprecedented. “Human rights abuses are not as bad as it was during Jammeh’s time, but the level of corruption, I think it’s way more than it used to be,” she stated. “During Jammeh’s time, it was a one man’s show only Jammeh took but now it’s like the power of grabbing. Everyone is grabbing left, right, and center,” she added.
Asked about the President’s recent comments on his desire for the National People’s Party (NPP) to remain in power for decades, Njie contended that longevity in power should not be an issue if exercised with diligence, transparency, and integrity. “If you lead with gratitude, if you lead with dignity and ensure the people’s dignity is guarded, I don’t mind your party ruling us forever,” she said. However, Njie argued that under Barrow’s government, the dignity of ordinary Gambians is compromised, with many citizens unable to afford basic needs.
“Our dignity is only guarded and protected when we can afford our three meals a day, when we don’t have to beg. People are now begging to eat because we struggle to make ends meet. Let us be real with what is happening in this country,” she concluded.
