By: Binta Jaiteh
Gambia’s Minister of Agriculture, Demba Sabally has said he is not surprised by the difficulties facing ongoing opposition coalition talks, arguing that the developments strengthen President Adama Barrow’s prospects in the December presidential election.
Speaking at a political gathering in Jambur, Sabally said he had never expected the coalition negotiations to succeed, following the withdrawal of the United Democratic Party (UDP) from the talks.
“I am not surprised by the UDP’s withdrawal because Ousainu Darboe has previously said that he wanted a UDP government. How can he resign from his party to lead a coalition?” Sabally said.
The minister accused the UDP of attempting to discredit the government through what he described as misleading statements aimed at attracting support ahead of the elections.
He rejected opposition criticism of the government’s infrastructure and energy programs insisting that the administration had made significant progress in national development.
Sabally said criticism of the government should be based on facts and merit, arguing that President Barrow’s achievements across various sectors were unprecedented.
He cited investments in road infrastructure, hospitals, youth empowerment programs and agricultural support, including fertilizer subsidies, as evidence of the government’s development agenda.
“President Barrow built roads and hospitals, empowered young people and farmers through fertilizer subsidies, and transformed the agricultural sector. Gambians owe President Barrow a great deal for what his government has achieved,” he said.
Sabally also criticized opposition politician Essa Faal over his allegations of corruption against the government, urging him to address allegations made against himself.
Referring to a video that he claimed had circulated publicly, the minister alleged that Faal had admitted to conduct that contradicted his anti-corruption stance.
He further questioned Faal’s previous claims regarding his financial standing and alleged inability to settle an outstanding debt.
The remarks come amid heightened political activity as parties prepare for The Gambia’s December 2026 presidential election.