Speaking at a media engagement on Friday, Mr. Sise described the press as “indispensable partners and key stakeholders in civic education,” emphasizing their vital role in ensuring citizens receive clear, timely, and accurate information during this pivotal electoral cycle.
Strengthening Democracy Through Outreach
Reflecting on recent achievements, the NCCE highlighted a series of nationwide initiatives designed to consolidate democracy and foster civic responsibility.
Mr. Sise noted that these interventions have reached thousands of Gambians, reinforcing social cohesion and electoral integrity.
Mr. Sise stressed that individuals who have been objected to are not criminals; rather, their eligibility is being lawfully questioned and will be determined by the courts. He urged all citizens and stakeholders to remain calm, exercise restraint, and allow due process to take its course.
Despite these positive developments, the NCCE expressed deep concern over the growing trend of identity polarization, inflammatory remarks, hate speech, and ethnic rhetoric in public discourse. Alarmingly, much of this divisive language has come from political figures, individuals in authority, and religious leaders that are expected to set moral standards and foster unity.
The Council called on political parties and leaders to publicly condemn and distance themselves from such actions, warning that silence in the face of extremism risks tearing the nation apart.
“In a nation still healing from past divisions, such utterances are corrosive tools that deepen suspicion and erode trust,” the statement read. While acknowledging apologies from some individuals, the NCCE emphasised that true leadership requires prudence, responsibility, and an unwavering commitment to unity.
The nation must never allow a few extremist elements to tear this country apart,” Mr. Sise warned, urging political parties to publicly condemn divisive acts and recommit to issue-based politics.
The Council issued a solemn call to all political actors, leaders, and persons of influence to refrain from any actions or utterances that threaten national peace and stability. Citizens were further challenged to embrace:
The NCCE extended gratitude to development partners, the Government of The Gambia, political parties, security forces, civil society, traditional and religious leaders, and the media for carrying these vital messages into communities nationwide.
Mr. Sise reminded Gambians that “a ballot is more than just a marble; it is the ink with which we write our children’s future.” He urged citizens to choose unity over division, dialogue over destruction, and peace over chaos.
“Elections will come and go. Governments will rise and pass. But The Gambia our peaceful, beautiful, resilient Gambia must remain,” the statement affirmed.
