Yusuf Tunkara, president of the NPP student wing, said the survey’s findings — which he says show growing support for Barrow and the governing coalition — are a “clear sign” Gambians are rallying behind the incumbent’s record on stability, infrastructure and economic recovery. “This poll confirms what we see every day on the streets and in our campuses: Gambians want continuity,” Tunkara said. “They want a leader who delivered peace after years of uncertainty and who has begun the work of rebuilding our economy. President Barrow’s victory in December is inevitable because people are choosing stability over chaos, progress over promises.”
Tunkara praised the methodology and timing of the Gambia Participates poll, saying it captured “the true mood” of voters across urban and rural constituencies. He added that the results reflect feedback his team receives while campaigning. “The results are not a surprise to those of us who have been campaigning around the clock,” he said. “Young people, women, and small business owners are telling us they believe in the direction set by President Barrow.”
Barrow, first elected in 2016 and re-elected in 2021, has in recent years faced criticism from opposition parties over the cost of living and governance concerns. But Tunkara insisted the president’s achievements on infrastructure, public sector reform and regional diplomacy resonate more with voters than opposition critiques. “The opposition will always find noise to make,” he said. “But when a voter has access to stable power, a repaired road, or a clinic that works, rhetoric fades. Gambians remember who showed up and got things done.”
On electoral oversight, Tunkara said the student wing would both mobilise support for Barrow and press for a transparent process. “We support free and fair elections — that is non-negotiable,” he said. “At the same time, we will not be passive. We will educate voters, protect polling day integrity through legal observers where needed, and ensure that the message of progress reaches every corner of the country. The best way to defend democracy is to offer voters a clear choice: continued progress under President Barrow.”
Tunkara made a direct appeal to undecided voters to consider continuity of development when casting their ballots. “If you care about sustained investment in roads, health centres and jobs for young people, ask yourself who has demonstrated the ability to deliver. December is a chance to consolidate gains. We believe Gambians will make the right choice.”
