Alagi Yorro Jallow
Fatoumatta: The Gambia’s democratic process is presently hindered by perceived double standards among dishonest political figures, armchair activists, and the European Union, along with the international community, concerning the advocacy for term limits. This highlights the significance of fairness and respect for sovereignty, especially in light of the unquestionable “Third Term” for the incumbent, President Adama Barrow, to participate in the 2026 presidential elections.
The Gambian Constitution, established in 1997, does not impose term limits on the presidency. As such, the debate over a third term in The Gambia is not a legal issue but rather a moral one. President Barrow faces no constitutional restrictions in seeking another term, affirming his right to do so. The push for a third-term limit by activists, politicians, and the international community is creating unnecessary distractions and turmoil. It is imperative that genuine opposition, activists, and the international community honor the constitution and the nation’s laws. Additionally, the absence of term limits for heads of government in many European countries underscores a double standard in the call for term limits in The Gambia. The emphasis ought to be on honoring The Gambia’s sovereignty and permitting its democratic processes to progress without unwarranted foreign influence.
Fatoumatta: I do not support term limits; instead, I trust in the sovereign will of the people, upheld by robust independent institutions. Term limits serve as a misdirection and an excuse for politicians who are unprepared to challenge the incumbent and lack a substantial political foundation. Proponents of term limits often belong to a part of society that harbors a sense of entitlement, treating politics as a time for personal gain and promoting a divisive “Them vs. Us” mindset.
The Gambia has shown the world that ousting an entrenched dictator is not an insurmountable task. In 2017, Gambians ousted the tyrant Yahya Jammeh in an election that was free, fair, and transparent, overcoming his incumbency and control of state resources. This significant event was celebrated worldwide as evidence of democratic progress.
The Path Forward.
Fatoumatta: If Gambians have achieved such a significant accomplishment, why is there even a debate about a third term? With robust independent institutions, Gambians are capable of electing any leader they trust to guide their nation. The opposition’s focus should be on preparation, reform, restructuring, and the presentation of their agendas and policies for the 2026 presidential elections. The argument concerning term limits is not a matter of legality, but of morality.
The Paradox of Opposition.
Fatoumatta: Advocates for term limits often scrutinize the longevity of opposition leaders who remain in their roles without stepping down or allowing the rise of younger leaders. It’s paradoxical that while these opposition parties champion term limits, they fail to adopt such limits within their own party structures. For example, the UDP’s leading opposition figure has been contesting against autocrat Jammeh and now Adama Barrow since 1997, without making room for other ambitious members. In The Gambia, political aspirations can be suppressed by certain parties.
Fatoumatta: In conclusion, the campaign for term limits in The Gambia ought to be conducted with fairness and respect for national sovereignty. The Gambian constitution does not enforce term limits, and thus President Barrow is entitled to seek another term. It is crucial for all involved parties to honor the constitution and engage constructively, avoiding unnecessary disruptions and turmoil. We should place our faith in the sovereign will of the people and the resilience of our democratic institutions to lead us onward.
