GAMBIA: The Founder of the ADD Political Movement Expresses his Confidence in his Ability to Lead Gambia

Mr. Malik Camara, the founder of the Alliance for Democracy and Development (ADD), expressed his readiness to assume the presidency of Gambia in an interview with AG Radio, asserting that he possesses all the necessary qualities to lead this nation. Mr. Camara expresses his concerns regarding the political leaderships in various political parties in The Gambia, highlighting that one single individual has usually dominated his party for decades. He believes it is essential to introduce new faces and fresh ideas, rather than relying on the same familiar figures repeatedly.

Mr. Camara stated that there is no funding for the Alliance for Democracy and Development (ADD) from any businessman, the president, or any political party. He affirms that he established this movement driven by his intense passion, with the hope that the party will eventually evolve into a full political party to compete for the presidency.

The Alliance for Democracy and Development (ADD) received clearance from the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) on February 5th, 2018, to establish a movement under its name, and it has offices throughout the country. On July 22nd, 2022, the movement received clearance to establish a political party from the same institution, contingent upon the submission of all required documents and a payment of D1 million.

Mr. Malik Camara has been characterised as an eloquent and articulate individual who enjoys significant popularity among Gambians, particularly the youth. He asserts that there are between 25,000 to 30,000 people ready to support his candidature in the forthcoming 2026 presidential elections. Mr. Camara expressed strong confidence in his ability to lead The Gambia, provided that the necessary support is granted to him.

Mr. Camara expresses that he has always had no desire to reside in Europe or America, driven instead by his aspiration and ambition to lead The Gambia. He is confident that the agenda of his political party, Alliance for Democracy and Development (ADD), will lead The Gambia to a brighter future than it experienced under Presidents Jawara, Jammeh, and Barrow combined. Mr. Camara expresses a strong conviction that he could surpass all three former presidents in his capabilities as president. The Alliance for Democracy and Development (ADD) is a comprehensive political movement comprised of capable Gambians dedicated to advancing Gambia’s progress.

Mr. Camara asserts that Gambia is failing, if it hasn’t already become a failed state, and that nothing works properly in this country. He stated that he has met with President Adama Barrow on several occasions and clearly expressed his desire to become president and lead The Gambia someday. He mentioned that in one of his meetings with the President at the State House, he advised the president not to exceed two terms, to which the president responded that he would not pursue another term after 2021.

Mr. Camara asserts that, while President Adama Barrow is legally entitled to pursue another term, it is not a prudent decision from a moral standpoint. There are numerous issues in The Gambia that I find concerning, and in order to effect change, I believe I must be part of the system. This is why I aspire to enter the presidential race, to initiate the necessary transformations within the system. Mr. Camara added that what this country requires at this moment is a political saviour.