A coalition of civil rights activists, known as the Coalition of Progressive Gambians, took to the streets today (7 Nov), staging a protest against President Adama Barrow’s anticipated bid for a third term in office.

The demonstration, which was marked by chanting and placards, called on Barrow to step aside and honour the democratic process by not seeking re-election in the upcoming 2026 presidential race.

The protesters called for the adoption of the 2020 draft constitution, which includes measures to limit presidential terms, and decried what they described as “endemic corruption” under the current administration.

“No to the third term. Respect the voice of the Gambian people. We want the 2020 draft constitution. Power to the people. No to rampant corruption. Free the press,” the demonstrators chanted as they marched through the street.

The protest is part of a broader movement pushing for democratic reforms in The Gambia, a country that has only recently emerged from decades of authoritarian rule under former President Yahya Jammeh. Barrow, who won the presidency in 2016, had initially pledged to step down after serving a single term, but has since expressed interest in running for a second and, controversially, a third term.

The move has sparked outrage among many Gambians, who view it as a betrayal of the promises made during his initial election campaign. Critics argue that Barrow’s pursuit of a third term would undermine the progress made toward consolidating democracy in the country, which is still recovering from years of political repression.

Human rights groups have also raised concerns about press freedom and the treatment of political opposition under Barrow’s administration.

The Coalition of Progressive Gambians has been vocal in its criticism, urging the president to respect the constitutional limits on presidential terms and to take action against corruption within his government.

However, the growing momentum of such protests signals increasing public dissatisfaction with Barrow’s leadership, as The Gambia prepares for what could be a highly contentious election in 2026. 

The government has yet to respond officially to the protesters’ demands, but with the election season fast approaching, the controversy surrounding Barrow’s potential third-term bid is expected to dominate political discourse in the coming months.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba