The Minister of Interior, Mr Abdoulie Sanyang has said the government is prioritising dialogue, community policing and sensitisation over arrests to tackle tribalism and divisive political rhetoric ahead of the 2026 elections, warning that offenders could still face arrest and prosecution if necessary.
Responding to oral questions at the National Assembly, asked by Member for Lower Badibou Hon. Kemo Gassama, the minister said the government was taking proactive measures to prevent tensions before they escalate, rather than waiting for incidents to occur.
He explained that the Gambia Police Force was engaging communities, political parties and their leaders through public awareness campaigns, community outreach and media engagement to discourage divisive language and promote national unity.
The minister said the measures were intended to encourage citizens, political parties, candidates and their supporters to embrace tolerance, peaceful coexistence and respect for diversity throughout the electoral period.
However, lawmakers questioned whether the approach was sufficient, citing alleged tribalistic remarks made by individuals on political platforms.
One lawmaker raised concerns about the alleged lack of action against the Minister of Lands and Regional Government over a remark reportedly directed at an individual, describing him as a Lebanese.
Another lawmaker said individuals had been using political platforms to attack tribes, including making statements that a particular tribe would never produce a president.
In response, the Interior Minister maintained that the police were working to discourage such rhetoric through engagement with political leaders, candidates and communities.
He argued that community policing was not solely about making arrests but also involved preventing problems through dialogue and public education.
The minister acknowledged that arrests during the campaign period could create unnecessary tension, as political parties might interpret such actions as politically motivated. He therefore called for continued engagement with political parties and their supporters to promote peaceful campaigning.
However, he made clear that arrest and prosecution remained possible if individuals went beyond the limits of the law.
The minister also disclosed that deputy chiefs, service chiefs and their respective chiefs of operations had recently met to strengthen joint patrols, information sharing and operational coordination ahead of the elections.
He said the government would continue strengthening security measures before, during and after the electoral period.
“The fight against tribalism and discrimination is not only an electoral concern but an all time national security concern,” he said.