Momodou Bah, a prospective presidential aspirant for the 2026 elections, has criticised President Adama Barrow’s recent diplomatic trip to Morocco, describing the journey as indicative of concerning priorities in his leadership.

Bah’s remarks highlight what he sees as a troubling disregard for the interests of the Gambian people and the country’s international standing.

Bah, who previously backed Barrow’s reelection bid, questioned the value of the trip to Morocco, asserting that it offers little to The Gambia and its citizens.

“Why such deference to Sall, who is facing significant scrutiny in his own country?” Bah asked in a statement adding “what does this meeting bring to the Gambian people, who are funding this trip with their hard-earned taxes? For most Gambians, there is no clear benefit.”

Bah’s critique also extended to Barrow’s absence from a crucial meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Saudi Arabia, where discussions were underway concerning the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, a matter of significant global concern.

As the current chair of the OIC, Barrow’s absence was seen by Bah as a missed opportunity for The Gambia to assert itself on the global stage, particularly at a time when unity and diplomacy are critical in the Muslim world.

“The Gambia had a chance to represent the Muslim world on a major international issue, but instead, the president chose a private meeting of questionable relevance.”

 “This is not just symbolic neglect; it’s a missed opportunity for The Gambia to lead on issues that affect the global community,” he said. 

He also raised concerns about the implications of Barrow’s diplomatic choices, particularly in relation to Senegal, The Gambia’s immediate neighbor.

“The phrase ‘a friend to your enemy is your enemy’ rings true in diplomacy,” Bah warned, adding that “Barrow’s association with Sall could harm the strong diplomatic ties The Gambia shares with Senegal.”

In his statement, Bah suggested that Barrow’s actions reflect a growing detachment from the needs and concerns of the Gambian populace.

He called on citizens to critically evaluate the leadership of those in power, stressing that a change is needed to restore accountability, transparency, and a focus on national interests.

“Gambians deserve leadership that values transparency, prioritises our national interests, and acts in accordance with the democratic values we hold dear,” he concluded.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba