Information Minister Ismaila Ceesay has defended President Adama Barrow following criticism over a State House celebration marking Arsenal’s 2025/26 Premier League title, describing the backlash as “manufactured controversy” and an attempt to politicise a moment of national unity.

The President hosted Cabinet ministers and members of the Arsenal Fans Club Gambia on Sunday to celebrate the English club’s historic league victory, a gesture that quickly triggered public debate online amid ongoing electricity challenges in the country.

But Dr Ceesay dismissed the criticism, insisting the event should be viewed as a harmless celebration of sport rather than a political issue.

“It is unfortunate that some politicians are trying to manufacture controversy out of a simple moment of national unity and celebration,” he said.

He argued that President Barrow’s interest in football is well known and should not be misinterpreted as neglect of governance responsibilities.

“Celebrating a sporting achievement does not mean the President has abandoned his responsibilities or is unaware of the challenges facing the country,” he added.

Dr Ceesay said sports remain an important unifying force in society, capable of bridging political, ethnic and social divides, and should not be dragged into partisan debate.

He further rejected comparisons between symbolic public events and government performance, saying leadership must be judged by delivery and policy outcomes.

“Leadership is not measured by whether a President spends an hour congratulating football fans. Leadership is measured by results,” he stated.

The Information Minister highlighted ongoing government investments in roads, electricity expansion, healthcare facilities, education infrastructure, and water projects, saying these demonstrate continued development efforts under the Barrow administration.

He also noted that major energy projects are underway aimed at improving electricity supply, while government continues interventions to support citizens facing economic pressures.

Dr Ceesay added that it is unreasonable to expect a head of state to avoid all cultural or social engagements until every national challenge is fully resolved.

“The suggestion that the President cannot celebrate a football victory while simultaneously governing the country is both unreasonable and misleading,” he said.

He concluded that while criticism is part of democratic life, turning a football celebration into a political attack distracts from real national priorities.

“The Gambia needs solutions, not manufactured outrage,” he said.

By Adama Makasuba