Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – President Adama Barrow has called for national unity, religious tolerance, and responsible political conduct in his Koriteh message to Gambians, while also urging traders to avoid unnecessary price increases on essential commodities as Muslims prepare to celebrate Eid ul-Fitr.
In a statement delivered at the end of Ramadan, Barrow said the holy month had reinforced values of prayer, sacrifice, compassion, and solidarity, which he said should continue to guide citizens beyond the fasting period.
He congratulated the Muslim Umma on the occasion and thanked religious leaders for what he described as their guidance of worshippers throughout Ramadan. He also extended prayers for Christian communities observing Lent, describing interfaith harmony as one of The Gambia’s greatest national strengths.
Barrow used the message to reflect on growing global instability, saying conflicts in the Middle East and other troubled regions continue to cause suffering and uncertainty for millions.
Speaking in his capacity as chairman of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, he reiterated The Gambia’s call for dialogue, reconciliation, and peaceful settlement of disputes.
The Gambian leader said that although small states like The Gambia cannot control global forces, the country can protect its gains by preserving peace, stability, and national cohesion.
He said his government has, since 2017, made progress in rebuilding institutions, strengthening democracy, and improving citizens’ welfare. According to Barrow, investments in infrastructure, health, and education, as well as renewed attention to agriculture through mechanization and modern farming methods, are helping expand opportunities and improve food security.
The president also said The Gambia’s standing abroad has improved, citing the growing number of Gambians serving in international organizations, the confidence of development partners, and the international events hosted in the country as signs of renewed trust and respect.
Warning Against Divisive Politics
A major theme of Barrow’s address was a call for politics to remain peaceful and constructive.
“In a democratic society, political competition is normal and legal, but politics must not destabilize the country or undermine the progress we have achieved together,” he said.
He urged political actors and citizens to place the national interest above partisan considerations, arguing that politics should promote constructive citizenship, good governance, and national development rather than fuel divisions among families, neighbors, and communities.
Barrow said the country’s religious teachings, cultural values, and educational foundations place strong emphasis on compassion, unity, and mutual respect, which he described as stronger pillars for national life than political differences.
He further said Gambians, whether as citizens or public servants, must live up to their responsibilities and allow their relationship with God to shape conduct in homes, communities, and institutions.
Appeal to Traders Ahead of Eid
The president also addressed the economic difficulties facing households, acknowledging that global developments continue to affect The Gambia’s economy.
He praised sponsors, charitable groups, and businesses that supported vulnerable people during Ramadan, saying their generosity reflected the spirit of the month.
At the same time, he appealed to traders and businesses to show restraint by avoiding unjustified increases in the prices of basic goods, especially food items, at a time when many families are preparing for the Koriteh celebrations.
Barrow said national progress depends not only on government action but also on the degree of understanding, discipline, and unity shown by citizens.
He ended the message by urging Gambians to celebrate Koriteh with responsibility, patriotism, and good neighborliness, while remembering people suffering from conflict and instability around the world.
The president also prayed for continued stability, progress, and prosperity for The Gambia and wished Muslims a happy and blessed Eid ul-Fitr.
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