The Interior Minister, Abdoulie Sanyang, has warned that the government will not tolerate tribalism, hate speech or any form of incitement that threatens national unity ahead of the 2026 elections.

Speaking before the National Assembly, Mr Sanyang said authorities are taking steps to ensure that the electoral process remains peaceful, credible and free from ethnic divisions.

“The government remains steadfast in its determination to ensure that no individual or group is allowed to undermine the peace and stability of our dear nation by promoting ethnic or tribal hatred,” he told lawmakers.

The minister was responding to concerns about measures being taken to curb ethnic and tribal incitement during election campaigns.

He said the Ministry of Interior remains committed to protecting national unity, peace and social cohesion before, during and after the presidential and local government elections.

Mr Sanyang revealed that security agencies, including the Gambia Police Force, will intensify monitoring of political activities, campaign events and online platforms to prevent the spread of hate speech and inflammatory rhetoric.

He also called on political parties, community leaders, civil society organisations and the media to promote tolerance and responsible public discourse.

“We call upon all political actors, community leaders, the media, civil society organisations and citizens to place the national interest above all else,” he said.

According to the minister, the government is rolling out public awareness campaigns and community engagement programmes aimed at encouraging citizens to reject divisive narratives and embrace peaceful coexistence.

“These efforts are aimed at encouraging citizens, political parties, candidates and supporters to reject divisive narratives and embrace the values of national unity, tolerance and peaceful coexistence,” he said.

Mr Sanyang further disclosed plans to establish a multi-sectoral task force to coordinate election security and respond swiftly to emerging threats during the electoral period.

He said the ministry is working closely with the Independent Electoral Commission and other stakeholders to ensure compliance with electoral laws and campaign codes of conduct.

He assured lawmakers that comprehensive measures are already in place to ensure that the 2026 elections are conducted peacefully and in a manner that strengthens democracy and national cohesion.

By Adama Makasuba