By Dawda Baldeh
The Gambia Action Party (GAP) has criticised President Adama Barrow’s handling of the constitutionally mandated “Meet the People’s Tour,” describing it as “a waste of taxpayers’ money.”
Party leader Musa Ousainou Yali Batchilly expressed concern over what he called politically motivated remarks made by the president during recent meetings with constituents. He said the tour, required by the constitution at least once or twice annually to allow the president to engage citizens directly, had been turned into a platform for “political castigation and character assassination championed by the President and cabinet ministers.”
Batchilly argued the exercise should have been used for listening and learning. “It is profoundly disappointing to witness the President using this national tour to label opposition leaders as ‘useless’ and ‘aimless’ individuals,” he said.
GAP condemned the remarks, calling them “immature and uncalculated” and “deeply disrespectful to the democratic principles upon which our nation stands.” Batchilly reminded President Barrow that his position was attained with the support of many Gambians, including some of the very individuals he now disparages.
He urged the president to reflect on the collective efforts that brought him to power in 2016 and 2021.
“Leadership demands humility, respect, and a commitment to unity, not divisive rhetoric. It is a shame that instead of addressing the pressing needs of the people such as economic hardship, youth unemployment, and healthcare challenges he chooses to vilify his political opponents,” he emphasised.
GAP has called on the National Human Rights Commission to take note of the president’s remarks and caution him against further violations of the dignity and rights of opposition figures.
“Political maturity and respect for dissenting voices are the cornerstones of a healthy democracy,” Batchilly added.
By Dawda Baldeh The Gambia Action Party (GAP) has criticised President Adama Barrow’s handling of the constitutionally mandated “Meet the People’s Tour,” describing it as “a waste of taxpayers’ money.” Party leader Musa Ousainou Yali Batchilly expressed concern over what he called politically motivated remarks made by the president during recent meetings with constituents. He The Fatu Network
