State House, Banjul, 29th September 2026: The Gambia's democratic ranking has improved, according to an IDEAS study. This was revealed during a courtesy visit by IDEAS founder, peace negotiator Dr. Muhammad Ibn Chambas, at State House on Tuesday morning. President Adama Barrow was delighted to receive the news and pledged to consolidate democracy with an open democratic space. He noted that citizens are enjoying press freedom and that daily political debates continue to be broadcast on mass media outlets where opinions are freely expressed.
IDEAS briefed President Barrow on its motive to engage all political stakeholders to create a conducive environment for a peaceful and credible election as the country enters the political season. The group agreed on the need for a code of conduct to guide the process, working closely with the Independent Electoral Commission to ensure peace and stability. Speaking on the initiative, Dr. Chambas said the period should be one of competition of ideas in order to avoid violence and destabilisation of The Gambia, urging all political actors, their supporters and citizens to uphold peace. President Barrow is one of the most tolerant Presidents in Africa. In the ten years of his leadership, no political, media or civil society actor has been jailed, and he is determined to maintain this legacy as he focuses on developing the country's infrastructure.
As recipient of the "African Promoter of Peace in Africa 2024" award, President Barrow pledged, "I promise a credible and peaceful election," and called for a peaceful campaign during which stakeholders will discuss, debate and sell their messages to the electorate. "At the end, it is the people who decide the winner and loser and we must all accept the people's verdict," the President asserted. Appreciative of Dr. Chambas' stand with the Gambian people, President Barrow said he will be remembered in the transitional journey of the country. Additionally, the Gambian President renewed his call to religious leaders, as trusted figures, to continue addressing the people to maintain peaceful coexistence in the country.
