Mr President, there is growing concern about statements from some political actors, religious leaders and their supporters that encourage tribalism, intolerance and hostility. Such rhetoric is unacceptable in a democratic society and dangerous to national stability.
No tribe is superior to another, and no political party owns any ethnic community. The Gambia belongs equally to every citizen, regardless of tribe, religion, region or political affiliation.
Religious leaders occupy positions of trust and influence. Islam and Christianity teach peace, justice, compassion and respect for human dignity. Mosques, churches and other religious platforms must never be used to promote tribal division or partisan hostility. Religious leaders should preach unity, tolerance and peaceful political participation so that citizens can learn to respect one another despite their differences.
Mr President, politicians must also earn public support through credible programmes rather than insults, misinformation and tribal mobilisation. They should explain how they intend to address the major challenges facing Gambians, including:
· High cost of living and harsh economic realities
· Electricity and water shortages
· Youth unemployment and irregular migration
· Food security, healthcare and education
· Court proven Corruption and public-sector accountability
· The introduction of a new and broadly accepted Constitution
· Abolition of draconian media laws
Political leaders and their supporters must refrain from hate speech, abusive language, fake news and allegations unsupported by evidence. Freedom of expression does not give anyone the right to defame others, threaten communities or endanger national peace.
Mr President, Africa has experienced the tragic consequences of ethnic hatred and inflammatory propaganda. The experiences of Rwanda and Burundi remind us that reckless words can create mistrust, violence and the loss of innocent lives. The Gambia must never follow that path.
Politics comes and goes. Governments change, parties rise and fall, and elections eventually end. However, the wounds created by tribal hatred can take generations to heal. We must therefore remain Gambians first and ensure that our cultural diversity strengthens rather than divides us.
Every Gambian has the democratic right to form or join a political party and support a candidate of his or her choice. No citizen should be insulted or excluded because of a political preference. Although the opposition remains fragmented, decisions about coalitions and presidential candidates must be resolved through consultation, compromise and transparent democratic processes—not personal attacks or tribal mobilisation.
Mr President, your Government must take firm but lawful action against those promoting tribalism, incitement and hate speech. Enforcement must be impartial and must never be used to silence legitimate criticism, journalism or peaceful opposition.
Government, political parties, religious councils, the media and civil society should adopt a national commitment to responsible speech and peaceful political conduct.
Let politicians compete through ideas. Let religious leaders preach peace. Let citizens disagree without becoming enemies.
One Gambia! One People! One Destiny!
Good day!