The National People’s Party (NPP) has officially endorsed Adama Barrow, the party leader and secretary general, as its flagbearer for the 2026 presidential election, putting to rest the speculation surrounding his candidature.
The announcement was delivered by the party’s national live president, Dembo ‘Byforce’ Bojang, during the party’s non-elective congress that took place over the weekend in the Lower Region town of Soma.
The event was attended by hundreds of supporters and delegates, including executives from the governing National People’s Party (NPP). Nonetheless, this non-elective congress presents an opportunity for the party leader to urge party supporters to advance together, with renewed energy, optimism, and determination to create a Gambia that stands proudly as a beacon of peace, hope, progress, and unity.
Addressing a crowded audience at the party bureau, Dembo Bojang expressed gratitude to Gambians for their efforts and reflected on the negative perceptions aimed at Adama Barrow during his rise to power, noting the various criticisms he faced, including claims of being uneducated.
Considering these negative assumptions, particularly from his political opponents, Dembo Byforce asserted that some even doubted his ability to govern a country, overlooking the will of Almighty God.
In this context, the seasoned politician from Bakau asserted that any position a person is meant to attain can be achieved smoothly and without obstacles.
With over 40 years of extensive experience in politics, Dembo Byforce, as he is commonly known, recognised that he still possesses the foresight to evaluate the abilities of individuals.
He stated that he, along with another seasoned Gambian politician, Majanko Samusa of the People Progress Party, were the individuals who recognised Adama Barrow as president based on the qualities they perceived in him.
“He (Adama Barrow) has consistently shown loyalty to this country, and his remarkable development initiatives stand out even when compared to those from the colonial period through the first and second republics.”
The veteran Gambian politician also referred to the improved road infrastructure in the country, contrasting it with the daily challenges people faced, particularly in travelling from one end to another.
He noted that it is now possible to depart from Bakau in the morning and enjoy lunch in Basse in the Upper River Region, or the other way around. This, he stated, is a result of the dynamic and visionary leadership of President Adama Barrow.
He also highlighted that during that time, particularly civil servants faced challenges in receiving their salaries because of the poor condition of the roads and transport options.
This, he noted, even compelled some individuals to use donkey carts as a means of transportation to collect their salaries, particularly those residing in remote communities.
In his remarks on education, he noted that the number of schools being constructed in this country is unparalleled. He also announced that, as the national president of the party starting today, he has endorsed Adama Barrow as the NPP candidate for the 2026 presidential election.
“Regardless of his feelings, I am his elder and we have made our choice.” Upon the announcement, NPP delegates and party supporters erupted into celebration and applause, putting an end to the uncertainty surrounding his candidature for the 2026 presidential election.
In his statement to Congress, Adama Barrow, secretary general and current NPP flagbearer for the 2026 presidential election, began by expressing gratitude and appreciation to the NPP Executive and all individuals whose loyalty, he noted, has played a role in the party’s dynamism in various ways.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our dedicated militants, regional and sub-regional leaders, supporters, and everyone who persistently works behind the scenes to advance our agenda.” “Your sacrifices are the foundation of our success,” he stated.
In this regard, Barrow conveyed his appreciation to all NPP members for the unique privilege and exceptional honour of guiding this transformative political family.
“Together, we have commendably transformed The Gambia’s political landscape, embodying the esteemed principles of tolerance, transparency, democracy, the rule of law, and respect for human and people’s rights. These are the valued universal principles we championed, and they will persist in shaping the essence and demeanour of our party.
He expresses gratitude and pays respects to the political parties that have collaborated with them, both during favourable and challenging times. He emphasises that this congress serves as an opportunity for him to recognise the trust placed in him and the support for his government.
“Alongside the citizens of this nation, you have raised me to the pinnacle of leadership, and your unwavering spirit remains with us as we embark on our collective and meaningful path of advancement and growth.”
Omar Drammeh, regional chairman of the Lower River Region, welcomed the delegates and other dignitaries. He expressed gratitude to the various districts within the region for their efforts in hosting the event. Additionally, he urged NPP members to uphold perseverance and unity as they work towards realising the vision of their leader, who is dedicated to the development of the country.
Other speakers, including Maimuna Baldeh, national women’s mobiliser, Kebba Madi Bojang, national president, and Majanko Samusa of the NCP, along with representatives from partner parties, all conveyed similar sentiments. Representatives of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) were also present at the congress.
