“As mature and cultured people, we must realise that, once elections end, we are duty-bound to unite and serve the country as one people.
“Whenever we exercise our political rights and compete in national elections, we do so as actors with different viewpoints, and not as enemies.”
It is now time to put behind us the divisive politics and hate speeches that seem to divide the nation. This is the time to re-energise ourselves for nation building so that every citizen becomes a winner.
“It is clear that our people wish to maintain an environment that is peaceful, stable and secure enough for all citizens which is one of the top priorities of my government.”
According to him, to achieve these aspirations faster, ‘we need to work as a united force, be service-oriented and be very committed to the betterment of the people, strive to advance and strengthen our democracy, and as well as observe the principles of peace and justice for all.’
Based on party affiliation and trust for some independent candidates, he added, Gambians have duly elected their representatives; nonetheless, we expect all the successful candidates to work together as a legislative body to promote and serve the national interest.
In addition, President Barrow said in a democracy, we must embrace diversity and as a country, the legislature works independently but, “it has to be in partnership with the Executive and the Judiciary to ensure that, jointly we serve and fulfil the development aspirations of our citizens within a just environment.”
Barrow pointed out that in exercising their rights in what was clearly a very keenly contested legislative elections, Gambians made their choice of National Assembly representatives from an unprecedented number of candidates from political parties to independent candidates.
“On behalf on my government and family, and on my own behalf, I express deep gratitude to all the peace loving Gambians who contributed to this historic achievement,” he stated.
Consequently, he said “with warm sentiments, I also congratulate the Independent Electoral Commission, the security services, political parties, observers, the media and all other stakeholders for the roles they played throughout the electoral process.”
Barrow posited that the election of diverse political party representatives and independent candidates from different background is an indication of a vibrant democracy.
He said Gambians have fulfilled a vital constitutional mandate in an amicable manner by demonstrating that our democracy is thriving.
He continued that the just concluded parliamentary elections was another test of the credibility and viability of our institutions as well as the mechanisms and processes we are strongly determined to safeguard and strengthen. “To our credit as Gambians, we have got over the event with remarkable success,” said President Barrow.
During the political campaigns leading to the 2021 Presidential election and the recently concluded National Assembly elections, he explained, the citizens of this nation loudly expressed and showed their passion for efficient public services that would improve their lives and livelihoods.
