my re-election for another five years is a vote of confidence in my government, a vote of acknowledgement of my achievements, a vote of endorsement of the path we have undertaken to follow, and a vote of acceptance of the democratic principles and values we stand for,” he said.
“It is also a vote of appreciation of who we are as a people and how we have branded ourselves, as well as a vote of willingness of the people to come together and work together to pursue our dreams and aspirations. In short, it is a vote of hope and reassurance, a rejection of division and oppression, and a new legitimate mandate for me as President and Head of State of the Republic of The Gambia,” he added.
His swearing-in was witnessed by several Commonwealth leaders and African heads of government, together with Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland, who looked to The Gambia as beacon of democratic progress following over two decades of state-sanctioned abuse, rape, torture and violence which took place under the leadership of President Barrow’s predecessor Yahya Jammeh.
“Today, my brothers and sisters, we can say together that our partnership will go from strength to strength. Our world faces profound and serious challenges, but I truly believe that The Gambia will shine like a beacon across the Commonwealth, just as the Commonwealth will shine like a beacon across the world,” the Secretary-General said. “We can see, in the process of democracy, The Gambia’s light shine.”
She added that at a time when democracy is under threat in many parts of the world, democracy in this West African nation is getting stronger. “I hope the example of The Gambia’s journey will not only provide a strong foundation for The Gambia’s future but will also help to heal injured democratic process in other places,” she added.
