President Adama Barrow has called on the 53 elected national assembly members to work together and promote the country’s interest.

Barrow made the call today (11 April) in his address to the nation a day after his ruling National People’s Party (NPP) failed to gain a majority in the National Assembly elections. 

The NPP won 19 out of the 53 seats while  the main opposition United Democratic Party won 15 seats. 

“Irrespective of party affiliation and trust for some independent candidates, Gambians have duly elected their representatives. Nonetheless, we expect all the successful candidates to work togther as a legislative body to promote the national interest,” President Barrow said.

“At this point I must congratulate all the successful candidates on their victories. And call on the remaining contestants to join forces with us to work in the best interest of the nation.

“It’s obviously clear that our people wish to maintain an environment that is peaceful, stable and secure enough of every citizens as top priority of my government. This aspirations can be archived much faster if we work as a united force,” he added.

“In doing so, we need to be service oriented and committed to the betterment of our people, strive to advance and strengthen our democracy and observe the principle of peace and justice for all. These are essential elements for development and progress which we cannot ignore,” he said.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba