Gambiaj.com – (Jarra Soma, Lower River Region) – Gambian President Adama Barrow has categorically denied rumors suggesting he is grooming his son, Baba Barrow, for the presidency. Speaking at the National People’s Party (NPP) congress in Jarra Soma on Sunday, Barrow dismissed claims that he harbors dynastic ambitions, emphasizing his family’s detachment from political aspirations.
“People are misinterpreting my statements, claiming that I want my son, Baba Barrow, to become president. I would never allow him to enter politics,” the President said.
Barrow, who ascended to power in 2017 and now leads the NPP, clarified his vision for The Gambia’s leadership succession. “I want the next president to come from my party, but not from my family. I understand what politics entails. People only see the external side, but there is so much more beneath the surface,” he stated.
The 59-year-old leader reflected on his own unplanned rise to the presidency, describing it as a divine appointment. “I never wanted to be president in the first place, but it’s what Allah has destined for me,” he said, urging unity and patience for national progress.
Barrow underscored the role of faith in shaping the country’s future, asserting, “In life, we cannot achieve anything unless it is destined by Allah.”
Rebuke of Opposition Leader Essa Faal
The President also seized the opportunity to respond to recent comments by Essa Faal, leader of the Turn Around Movement and an international lawyer. Faal had disparaged one of Barrow’s advisers as a former “donkey cart driver,” drawing sharp criticism from the president.
Barrow described Faal’s remarks as “ignorance” and a disservice to Gambians from rural backgrounds. “When I was young, I used to ride a donkey cart. Back then, it was a luxury,” he said, defending the dignity of rural livelihoods.
He emphasized that such rhetoric only serves to divide the nation. “Belittling others based on their background shows a lack of understanding. Many Gambians, especially those in rural areas, have used donkey carts for transportation. It’s part of our story,” Barrow said.
Addressing Social Media Hostility
The President also voiced concern about the role of social media in fostering division, calling it a “destructive” force. “Avoid social media; its destructive effects are severe. It is ruining people. Let’s unite and work for the development of our country,” he urged supporters.
Barrow reminded his audience of the collective responsibility of leadership, cautioning against complacency. “We are the leaders today, and we must embrace that responsibility,” he said.
The NPP leader concluded by reminding citizens that the nation belongs to everyone. In a thinly veiled critique of long-standing opposition parties, he noted, “Some parties have been vying for this position for decades but have yet to succeed. Let us focus on unity and development.”
The NPP congress in Jarra Soma highlighted Barrow’s ongoing efforts to consolidate support ahead of future elections while addressing the rhetoric and challenges posed by his political opponents.
