The reported improvement in The Gambia’s democratic performance since 2017 is an encouraging development for a country that has undergone a significant political transition. The findings of the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), particularly its assessment of improvements in credible elections, personal integrity and security, and freedom of expression, deserve attention.
However, democratic progress should not be measured only by improvements recorded in international assessments. It must also be reflected in how political institutions, parties, candidates, security agencies, the media and citizens conduct themselves, especially during elections.
With the December 2026 presidential election approaching, the responsibility to protect the country’s democratic gains rests with all stakeholders. Political competition is inevitable and necessary in a democracy, but it must remain a contest of ideas, programmes and national visions rather than personal attacks, intimidation or violence.
The initiative by Dr Muhammad Ibn Chambas and International IDEA to engage political stakeholders and promote a code of conduct is therefore timely. Such efforts can help establish common expectations for responsible political behaviour and strengthen confidence in the electoral process.
The Independent Electoral Commission also has an important responsibility to administer the election impartially, transparently and in accordance with the law. Political parties and candidates, for their part, must respect electoral rules and accept legitimate outcomes.
The media must equally play its part by providing accurate, balanced and responsible coverage while giving citizens access to diverse political views.
President Adama Barrow’s call for stakeholders to accept the people’s verdict is an important principle. Ultimately, the authority to determine the country’s political leadership belongs to Gambian voters.
The Gambia has made democratic gains since 2017. The challenge now is to protect and consolidate them. A peaceful, credible and inclusive election would provide an important opportunity to demonstrate that democratic progress can endure beyond political transitions.
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