No Amount of Bigotry Can Stop the NPP

In recent times, we've seen an alarming trend among self-proclaimed media "gurus" and political activists who have transitioned into right-leaning critics. These individuals relentlessly attack members and supporters of the National People's Party (NPP), while also denouncing every step or statement from President Adama Barrow. Since gaining independence in 1965, no political party in The Gambia has achieved what the National People's Party has accomplished. The NPP was hastily formed by dedicated citizens in response to the betrayal experienced from lawyer Ousainou Darboe, the United Democratic Party (UDP), and a group of so-called elites. They viewed the 2016 electoral defeat of Yahya Jammeh and the transition away from dictatorship as a golden opportunity to seize the nation’s resources and secure power for themselves. In contrast, patriotic Gambians who supported President Barrow rallied together to establish the NPP, ready to compete against established parties with little experience or insight into the struggles of the ordinary Gambian. Many of these elites seemed more concerned with support from a diaspora that had largely been cowed by Jammeh’s oppressive regime or were indifferent to the cries of the Gambian people.

The NPP demonstrated its strength by decisively defeating these larger, established parties in the 2021 presidential elections and securing a majority in the National Assembly. This success has fueled the anger of opposing factions, who have now resorted to bigotry, despite many being political newcomers themselves.

As we approach the 2026 presidential elections, these critics are taking to social media platforms, engaging in inflammatory rhetoric and self-importance. They falsely believe they are the most educated, dismissing NPP members—especially President Barrow—as merely "semi-educated." Meanwhile, the NPP continues to win over the hearts and minds of the electorate, as the so-called major parties fade into irrelevance. The NPP is an authentic voice of the people, and Gambians recognize the remarkable progress made during President Adama Barrow's eight years in office. The peaceful atmosphere, along with significant infrastructural advancements—from road networks to healthcare facilities and educational institutions—serves as undeniable proof of the party's accomplishments. The NPP does not need to seek validation on your platforms like desperate opportunists. It is clear that the second-rate conduct of many of these critics is known to us. We will not stand idly by while they distort facts and perpetuate a negative narrative about the government. The Gambian people endured tremendous hardships under the past regime, during which many of these critics played minimal roles in advocating for freedom of expression and the press.

We’ve seen vocal members of civil society condemning President Barrow for urging civil servants to carry out their duties effectively and to align with government policies. It's essential to remember that a government's primary responsibility is to ensure that civil servants fulfill their roles in alignment with official programs for the greater good. The civil service in The Gambia needs reform and a shift in attitude to better serve the populace. Corruption and inefficiency must be eradicated. Civil servants must understand that they are funded by the state and should be dedicated to their work. The pervasive lethargy and resistance stemming from opposition to the NPP government are adversely affecting the lives and livelihoods of many Gambians. President Barrow's call for accountability should be commended by all true patriots.

Activism should not equate to opposing every decision made by the president and his administration. The role of civil society organizations and activists is to engage constructively, offering insights and recommendations for improvement rather than mere opposition.

In conclusion, bigotry and baseless rhetoric will not prevent the NPP from winning the 2026 presidential elections. The electorate knows what they want and will not be deceived. We will rise to the challenge, just as we did in 2021, and deliver a resounding victory for the mighty National People's Party (NPP) Yaya Dampha Coordinator NPP DIASPORA GROUP