President Adama Barrow has called on Gambians to maintain peace, stability and unity as the country prepares for a crucial election year.

Speaking at the King Fahad Mosque after attending Eid-ul-Adha prayers, Barrow described Tobaski as a period of reconciliation, prayers and togetherness, urging citizens to strengthen national unity.

“This day is a day of reunion. It’s a day of reconciliation. It’s a day of prayers,” Barrow said, while encouraging Gambians to visit and pray for one another during the celebrations.

The president stressed that peace remains essential for national development, warning that no country can progress without stability.

“A country cannot develop without peace. Peace is priceless,” he said. “Let us all work hard towards peace. Let us all pray for peace and stability.”

Barrow also reminded Gambians that the country is entering an election period and called for maturity and tolerance throughout the process.

“This year is a very important year in our calendar. The year is an election year,” he said.

“We advise Gambians to maintain peace and stability in this country so that we will organise a very successful election – an election that is peaceful, transparent and recognised by the international community.”

The Gambian leader further urged citizens to reconcile and place national interest above division as political activities intensify ahead of the polls.

Addressing the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, Barrow called for dialogue among parties involved in the war, saying peace remains the only solution.

“Our religion is a religion that preaches peace,” he said.

“Dialogue is the only way forward. We cannot solve war without dialogue.”

By Adama Makasuba