Adama Barrow’s presidential tour sparks ethnic rhetoric and political tension

President Adama Barrow’s 2026 ‘Meet the People Tour’ has drawn criticism from the United Democratic Party (UDP) and highlighted rising political tensions ahead of the December 5 presidential election.

The UDP has accused the taxpayer-funded tour of being used as a platform for ethnic insults and political attacks. The party cited several incidents, including remarks targeting the Lebanese community, the people of Banjul, the Manjago community, and the Mandinka ethnic group. UDP spokesperson Saikou Camara questioned the president’s tolerance of such rhetoric from his allies.

During the tour, President Barrow also engaged in personal criticism of UDP leader Ousainu Darboe, mocking his physical strength while simultaneously warning National People’s Party supporters not to underestimate the opposition.

Addressing his administration’s record, Barrow claimed that a decline in community requests for basic services, such as electricity and water, serves as evidence of significant development gains since he took office in 2017. He stated that the lack of such demands during his current tour reflects the progress made under his leadership.