Janjanbureh’s independent member of the National Assembly, Omar Jatto Jammeh, formally joined the ruling National People’s Party on Friday. He said that his decision was motivated by the government’s development agenda and his dedication to advancing the interests of his constituents.
Following a meeting with President Adama Barrow at the State House in Banjul, Mr. Jammeh made the announcement, emphasizing that it was a major shift for a lawmaker who had entered Parliament without a party affiliation.
In an interview with reporters soon after the meeting, Mr. Jammeh said his choice was more about a broader commitment to the country’s progress than personal goals.
“The purpose of the visit was really very positive,” he said. “It was to recognize the developments in the country and also to discuss concerns around the community, as well as my necessity to support that idea.”
He emphasized that joining the ruling party was, in his view, a practical step to improve cooperation with the central government and accelerate development projects in Janjanbureh.
“For me, joining or affiliating myself is not just about myself,” he said. “This is about helping to push the development of this community.”
Mr. Jammeh described the action as a combination of public and personal duty when asked about the political ramifications of his choice, saying that it reflected the wishes of his constituents and his faith in the direction of the ruling party.
“This is a welcoming development,” he said, “in terms of seeing myself affiliated with the party and also listening to those who put me into office.”
As the country prepares for the December 5, 2026, presidential elections, his defection adds to a number of changes in Gambian politics.
