Gambians urge President Adama Barrow to go beyond humanitarian refuge for Issa Tchiroma Bakary

“Press Release

GAP Commends, But Calls for Action and Accountability

The Gambia Action Party (GAP) extends its sincere commendation to His Excellency President Adama Barrow for his humanitarian gesture and political maturity in granting refuge to the Cameroonian opposition leader, who fled his country following post-election turmoil. The recent elections in Cameroon have been widely criticized for irregularities, political intimidation, and tensions that continue to threaten peace, democracy, and the will of the people.

GAP firmly believes that offering a haven to political victims or democratic advocates is an act consistent with global democratic values and Africa’s long-standing cultural principle of solidarity during crisis. It is a reminder that The Gambia, once a victim of democratic injustice, now has a moral responsibility to stand with the oppressed and uphold the principles of justice, transparency, and constitutional order.

However, GAP also urges President Barrow and the Government of The Gambia to go beyond refuge and take decisive diplomatic steps. We call on the president to engage regional and global partners, including ECOWAS, the African Union, and the European Union, to ensure that the rule of law, peace, and democratic standards are restored in Cameroon

We further call on the leadership in Cameroon, particularly President Paul Biya, to respect the verdict of the people and to uphold democratic norms and constitutional values. When elections fail to reflect the true will of the people, legitimacy is lost, and leadership becomes tyranny. Africa cannot continue recycling leaders whose authority does not come from the ballot, but from coercion, manipulation, and fear.

The African Union and the European Union must not remain silent spectators. They must fulfil their diplomatic and moral mandate by ensuring that democracy is enforced and constitutional order is restored. The continued silence of continental institutions in the face of injustice undermines Africa’s development, weakens its democracy, and fuels instability.

Africa deserves leaders who listen to the people, not leaders who silence them.

GAP stands in solidarity with the people of Cameroon and calls for peace, justice, respect for human rights, and the peaceful transfer of power in accordance with democratic values.

Musa Ousainou Yali Batchilly, Secretary General and Party Leader

The Gambia Action Party (GAP)

Advancing Democracy, Justice, and African Unity”