As The Gambia prepares for its December 5, 2026 presidential election, civic leaders are urging citizens to embrace tolerance, responsible communication, and unity to safeguard peace and democracy.
At a workshop themed “Bridging the Divide, Fostering Social Cohesion and Peace”, Chief Civic Education Officer of the National Council for Civic Education (NCCE), Yusupha Bojang, warned against the rising use of divisive language in political discourse. He stressed that elections must remain “a marketplace of ideas, policies, and development programmes, but never a battleground for insults, character assassination, regional bigotry, or ethnic polarisation.”
Bojang revealed that early warning analysis and electoral hotspot mapping show 35 of the country’s 53 constituencies are rated high or very high risk. He called this “a critical concern that requires deep vigilance and utmost caution from all electoral stakeholders.” He urged political leaders to publicly condemn hate speech, reminding them that political competition does not equal enmity. “When we are competing, we are not enemies, but rivals,” he said.
The Inter-Party Committee (IPC) echoed this message of unity. Co-Chair Ejatou Jallow reaffirmed the Committee’s dedication to fostering peace, inclusivity, and mutual respect. “The IPC stands united in the belief that peace, inclusivity, and mutual respect are the cornerstones of a thriving democracy,” she declared.
Jallow emphasised the importance of amplifying the voices of women, youth, and persons with disabilities, ensuring leadership reflects the diversity of Gambian society.
Meanwhile, Pamela Camara, Focal Person for the HOPE Project at Catholic Relief Services (CRS), reminded Gambians that peace is not inherited but nurtured daily. “Peace is not built in moments of agreement, but in moments of difference,” she said, urging citizens to use their voices as instruments of healing and trust rather than division.
The workshop, organised under the CRS HOPE Project in partnership with the NCCE, brought together citizens from diverse political parties and communities. Participants were encouraged to embrace dialogue, empathy, and collaboration as pathways to sustainable peace.
As the countdown to the 2026 polls continues, the collective message from civic leaders is clear: safeguarding democracy requires vigilance, inclusivity, and a commitment to peace.