President Barrow Hosts Inaugural Dialogue with Political Parties
By Mariama Dem
President Adama Barrow made history by convening the Gambia’s first-ever consultation dialogue with all political party leaders at the State House in Banjul. The gathering, which included representatives from political parties, civil society organisations, and cabinet ministers, focused on the theme “Our Collective Responsibility in Preserving the Nation, Safeguarding the State, and Securing Our Resources.”
This dialogue comes at a crucial moment as divisions among citizens deepen, aiming to bridge this gap and restore unity, peace, and security in the Gambia to foster development.
John Charles Njie, a member of the National Preparatory Committee, stressed the positive impact of such gatherings in restoring hope for the nation, fostering unity, and setting an example of political maturity and acceptance in the subregion.
The consultative forum resulted from recommendations made during last year’s public forum in celebration of the 58th independence anniversary, aimed at encouraging reflection and dialogue on critical national issues promoting peace and stability.
President Barrow underscored the government’s commitment to collaboration in maintaining peace and stability, stressing the importance of forging national consensus on divergent views without fostering enmity or disunity. He called on citizens to actively participate in the upcoming national dialogue to reinforce social cohesion and tolerance.
During the dialogue, political parties raised key issues, including better management of state resources, addressing the high cost of living, promoting religious tolerance, ensuring a level playing field for all politicians, enhancing civic education, protecting women, and finding solutions to prevent illegal migration.
President Barrow assured participants that steps would be taken to address these concerns. Further discussions are scheduled for February 14 and 16 to address thematic issues and mark the National Day of Dialogue, respectively.