Ebrima Sillah Responds to Calls Against President Barrow’s Third Term Bid
Ebrima Sillah, Minister of Transport works and Infrastructure
By Fatou Sillah
The Minister of Transport, Works, and Infrastructure, Ebrima Sillah, has addressed concerns from individuals opposing President Adama Barrow’s potential bid for a third term.
Speaking during the President’s “Meet the People” tour in Brufut, which brought together residents of Sanementereng and Kombo South constituencies, Minister Sillah emphasized that the National People’s Party (NPP) remains committed to upholding the Gambian constitution.
“I hear people on the West Coast making bold statements, saying that President Barrow should not run for a third term, claiming it should not be forced. But don’t they realize that if they come to us in the morning, we will offer them breakfast, and if they come in the afternoon, we’ll serve them lunch? They need to reconsider their position. Under President Adama Barrow’s leadership, the NPP is committed to maintaining peace. We are abiding by the constitution, respecting the rights of the people, and doing exactly what the constitution requires of us,” he said.
Minister Sillah warned that any individual or group attempting to act outside the framework of the constitution would face consequences. He cited the enthusiastic support from crowds in Brufut and other communities as evidence of widespread backing for President Barrow’s leadership.
“If anyone intends to go against the constitution, let them know their consequences are waiting for them. We know each other in this country, and we are aware of those involved in such actions. Have you not seen the massive crowds from Brufut, Kuloro, Galleh Manda, and Sandou Dasilame? If just a handful of you dare to tell these people that President Barrow will not run, have you considered the implications?” he stated.
He also highlighted the strides made by the Barrow administration in the Foni and Kombo regions.
“From Foni to Kombo, wherever you go, there is visible development. It’s not just in specific wards but across the board. If you don’t see new roads, you’ll find projects initiated by the Ministry of Agriculture, the Women Enterprise Fund, or other government initiatives. President Barrow’s administration recognizes the vital role played by the Alkalolus and Seyfos, which is why they now receive monthly salaries,” he stated.
He further remarked, “Some youth are also benefiting from his government. So, for anyone saying President Barrow won’t contest the 2026 presidential elections, they’re setting themselves up for a tough challenge. This fear stems from the fact that President Barrow is a formidable candidate. When he wins, he wins big, as we saw in 2021.
“His victory was so decisive that some opponents had already conceded defeat before the final results were announced. That’s what they’re afraid of in 2026. But let me assure them—we are ready. We are no longer debating 2026. As we’ve always said, there’s no vacancy at Marina Parade. We have our candidate, and by God’s grace, he will contest and win,” he concluded.