Demba Sabally the minister of agriculture has said he will back a candidate to challenge Almameh Gibba in the 2027 parliamentary elections, escalating an ongoing political rivalry between the two men.

Speaking in remarks directed at the Foni Kansala National Assembly Member, Dr Sabally said he was prepared to personally fund efforts to ensure Mr Gibba loses his seat.

“I will put up a candidate against him in the 2027 parliamentary election and ensure he loses his seat in the National Assembly. I will personally invest my money in that crusade,” he said.

Dr Sabally also accused Mr Gibba of disrespecting elders and influencing young people negatively in the Foni area, allegations that are likely to deepen political tensions in the region.

Both men are natives of Foni and have been at odds in recent years, reflecting broader divisions in the area’s political landscape.

Mr Gibba is known as a vocal critic of President Adama Barrow’s administration and is widely seen as a staunch supporter of former president Yahya Jammeh.

The minister’s comments signal what could become a closely watched political contest ahead of the 2027 elections, particularly in Foni, a region long regarded as a stronghold of Mr Jammeh’s support base.

There has been no immediate response from Mr Gibba to the minister’s remarks.