By Buba Gagigo
Saihou Mballow, Special Adviser on Political Affairs to President Adama Barrow, has defended the president’s decision to seek a third term in the 2026 presidential election, stating that the move is driven by public demand and his administration’s developmental achievements.
Speaking in an interview with Kerr Fatou, Mballow emphasized that President Barrow’s candidacy aligns with constitutional provisions and the expressed will of the Gambian people.
“Whether one accepts it or not, there is a strong demand from Gambians for President Barrow to seek re-election in 2026. The Constitution allows him to contest, and given his record on development and governance—such as advancing press freedom, freedom of association, and media freedom—people across the country have urged him to run again,” Mballow stated.
He further cited feedback from the president’s recent Meet the People Tour and political rallies, where supporters reportedly encouraged Barrow to seek another term.
“During the Meet the People Tour, many citizens personally conveyed their support to the president. This sentiment was echoed at rallies nationwide. The president alone cannot secure re-election—it is the voters who decide. If the majority were opposed to his candidacy, he would not run. However, they are calling on him to contest, and as long as he is in good health and capable, there is nothing stopping him,” Mballow asserted.
Saihou Mballow serves as the Special Adviser on Political Affairs to President Adama Barrow.