The growing exchange of accusations over ethnicity in The Gambia’s political discourse is a worrying development as the country approaches the December 2026 presidential election. Political leaders have a responsibility to ensure that competition for power does not undermine national unity or turn ethnic identity into a tool for electoral mobilisation.
United Democratic Party (UDP) leader Ousainu Darboe has rejected allegations that his party is targeting Fula and Wolof voters through objections to voter registration. He maintains that such objections are filed by individual registered voters in accordance with the law, not by political parties. His response highlights the need for public debate to distinguish between lawful electoral procedures and allegations of discriminatory intent.
However, the controversy raises a broader question: how can electoral disputes be handled without deepening ethnic suspicion? The answer lies in transparency, evidence and respect for established legal procedures. Objections to voter registration must be assessed on their individual merits, without regard to the ethnic identity of the persons concerned. Equally, allegations of selective targeting should be supported by verifiable evidence rather than political rhetoric.
Political leaders must also recognise the influence their words carry. Statements that suggest particular ethnic communities are politically disloyal, or that one group is being favoured over another, can create mistrust among citizens who have long shared communities, workplaces and institutions.
President Adama Barrow and opposition leaders alike should condemn divisive rhetoric consistently, regardless of who makes it. Condemnation should not depend on public pressure or the political identity of the person responsible. Accountability and restraint must be demonstrated through action, not merely declarations.
The Gambia belongs equally to all its citizens. No ethnic group has exclusive ownership of the nation, and no citizen should feel disadvantaged because of their identity or political preference.
As the election approaches, politicians should compete through ideas, policies and credible development plans. The country needs needles that stitch communities together, not blades that divide them. National unity is not a campaign slogan; it is a responsibility that every political leader must uphold.
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