Rebuttal to APRC's Bass Sonko's Criticism of President Adama Barr

Fellow Gambians, It is imperative to address the recent unwarranted remarks made by Bass Sonko concerning the leadership of our esteemed President Adama Barrow and the National People's Party (NPP). Mr. Sonko, who spent over two decades supporting the oppressive regime of former President Yahya Jammeh, seems to have conveniently forgotten the atrocities, nepotism, tribalism, regionalism and official corruption that characterized those dark years in our country’s history. During his time supporting Jammeh, Bass Sonko turned a blind eye to the rampant injustices that plagued The Gambia. As highlighted in Amnesty International’s report of 2010, Jammeh's regime was marked by systematic fear, brutality, and the outright murder of innocent citizens. Official corruption was rampant, with Jammeh freely seizing state resources, engaging in land grabbing, and turning public institutions into personal profit centers—all without accountability. It is bewildering that Mr. Sonko can now criticize President Barrow for a nationally approved salary of 500,000 dalasis while he failed to denounce Jammeh’s unrestricted access to government accounts. Jammeh could withdraw funds at will, utilizing public resources for his personal gain while our citizens suffered in silence. Where was the outrage then? Mr. Sonko's selective memory is a testament to his unwillingness to confront the uncomfortable truths about his past allegiances. Moreover, Sonko's baseless claims of corruption directed at President Barrow lack any substantial evidence. The NPP government stands united in its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the pursuit of justice, particularly for the victims of the Jammeh regime. The wheels of justice are in motion, and it is only a matter of time before Yahya Jammeh and his henchmen face trial for the crimes they committed against our people. It is evident that Mr. Sonko's attacks stem from a place of desperation and fear—fear that the NPP government is diligently working toward accountability and reconciliation for the horrors of our past. It is significant to note that the road to justice for all affected by Jammeh’s dictatorship is being paved under President Barrow's leadership. As we look forward to the 2026 elections, let us remember the progress we have made under President Adama Barrow. His administration has fostered unprecedented development and peace in our nation. The sky is indeed the limit, and together, we will continue to build a Gambia that is inclusive, prosperous, and just. So, let us not be swayed by the rhetoric of those who once supported tyranny. Instead, let us unite behind the vision of a brighter future that President Barrow is tirelessly working to achieve for all Gambians. In solidarity and hope for a better Gambia, Yaya Dampha Coordinator LRR NPP Diaspora