By: Fatou Krubally
Political commentator Alhagie Saidy Barrow has criticised a press statement issued by the National People’s Party/APRC alliance in defence of remarks attributed to Deputy Speaker Seedy SK Njie concerning Mandinka identity, describing the explanation as “unconvincing” and “misleading.”
In a public reaction, Barrow rejected the alliance’s characterisation of the remarks as merely an “error in judgment,” arguing instead that the comments reflected deeper political attitudes and conduct.
He maintained that the explanation issued by the coalition failed to address what he described as the seriousness of the controversy surrounding the remarks.
Barrow also criticised the alliance’s broader defence, which stated that the comments were inconsistent with the values and commitments of the governing coalition. According to him, such assertions did not reflect the political realities on the ground.
He further took issue with what he described as the statement’s emphasis on loyalty to President Adama Barrow, suggesting that it appeared aimed at reinforcing internal political alignment within the coalition.
The commentator argued that both the tone and content of the statement pointed to underlying tensions and competing interests within the alliance, particularly among senior political figures.
He also suggested that the controversy could carry political consequences for the governing coalition, warning that reactions to the statement may deepen existing divisions within the alliance.
The NPP/APRC alliance has maintained that its official position remains rooted in national unity and social cohesion, while reaffirming its support for the authority of the President and the stability of the government.