Press Release
As The Gambia prepares for its upcoming elections, the German Embassy in Banjul is supporting Bright Stars Entertainment (BSE) as the main sponsor of its upcoming 'Ranha Bissap' show, using comedy, music and theatre to promote tolerance, inclusion and peaceful democratic participation.
The partnership reflects Germany's commitment to values shared with The Gambia: respect for democracy and human rights, diversity, freedom of expression, the rule of law and peaceful resolution of differences.
Through humour and entertainment, Bright Stars Entertainment brings important social and political messages to audiences across society, making complex issues accessible and encouraging dialogue.
“Democracy means being able to express different opinions freely and peacefully. Disagreement is a natural part of democratic life, but violence, intimidation and discrimination have no place in it,” said the German Ambassador to The Gambia, H.E. Klaus Botzet.
“Everyone, regardless of their political affiliation, ethnicity, religion or gender, has the right to vote and deserves to have their rights respected.”
With elections approaching, the Ambassador emphasized that safeguarding peace and democracy is a shared responsibility that extends beyond election day.
Every citizen should be able to participate freely, have their voice heard and contribute to the country's future without fear or intimidation.
He also called on Gambians to wait for the official results to be announced by the IEC in order to avoid confrontation.
“The official results are the ones that count! Wait for the official results announced by the IEC and don’t trust anybody who publishes results on their own account,” he said.
The Ambassador also highlighted the important role of young Gambians in shaping the country's democratic future.
“Young people are not only the future of The Gambia – they are its present, too. I encourage them to make their voices heard, engage constructively and respect those whose views differ from their own. The participation of the youth is essential to building a peaceful, inclusive and democratic society.”
