Mama Kandeh, Secretary General and Party Leader of the opposition Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC), has called for unity, peace, and inclusive democratic participation, urging Gambians to rise above political divisions in the interest of national development.
Speaking at the National Dialogue forum in the presence of President Adama Barrow, political stakeholders, and civil society actors, Mama Kandeh described the gathering as a “dream come true,” expressing appreciation to the President and organisers for creating space for national engagement.
He said the dialogue reflects the true spirit of The Gambia, where citizens of different backgrounds and political affiliations can come together to deliberate on issues of national importance.
“This is the Gambia that we want to see. This is the Gambia that we want our future leaders of this country to emulate,” he stated.
Mama Kandeh emphasized that national development requires collective responsibility, noting that all citizens must be allowed to contribute meaningfully regardless of political differences.
He stressed that issues of national interest should unite rather than divide Gambians, adding that the country’s progress depends on dialogue, cooperation, and mutual respect.
“When it is an issue of national interest, everyone here will have the time to contribute his or her quota towards national development,” he said.
The GDC leader further called for peace and reconciliation, insisting that there should be no hatred or conflict among citizens. “We are here one people. There can be no hatred between us here. There can be no war between us here,” he noted.
Mamma Kandeh also urged The Gambia to serve as an example of democratic practice in Africa, stating that democracy should not be owned by any single nation or individual but adapted to suit the needs of each society.
“Gambia needs to set an example in Africa. The size of our country does not matter. Democracy does not belong to any nation or 3 individual. We all can have our democracy in a way that suits our people,” he concluded.
