23/10/2025
Fellow Gambians,
The Economic Liberation Movement(EL) stands as a voice of truth, sovereignty, and self-determination for our beloved nation. Today, I speak not only as a political leader but as a patriotic Gambian who believes that our independence must never be compromised under any foreign influence or military presence.
The continued stay of Senegalese and Nigerians troops in The Gambia, long after the 2017 political transition, poses a serious question in our sovereignty and national pride. What began as a regional peace mission has now transformed into a symbol of dependency and external control. No nation can be truly free if its security is commanded by foreign soldiers.
Our government’s reliance on these forces undermines the morale of our own military, weakens our institutions, and sends a dangerous message that The Gambia cannot protect itself. This is not only unacceptable, it is an insult to the dignity of our people and the sacrifice of those who fought for our freedom from colonialism.
As leader of the Economic Liberation Movement, I therefore call for:
1. An urgent review and clear timeline for the withdrawal of all foreign troops from Gambian soil.
2. A comprehensive national security review aimed at rebuilding the Gambian Armed Forces into a strong, professional, and independent institution.
3. A new chapter of mutual respect and balanced diplomacy with our ECOWAS partners a relationship based on equality, not subordination.
We believe in cooperation, not domination. We seek peace with our neighbors, but we reject any form of foreign military control or political interference. The Gambia must rise again free, proud, and self-reliant.
Under ELP leadership, we will restore full sovereignty, rebuild our defense capacity, and ensure that the destiny of The Gambia is decided in Banjul, not in Dakar or Abuja.
Let every Gambian hear this loud and clear: Our independence is sacred, our sovereignty is non-negotiable, and our dignity is eternal.
Hon. Mamadou Obama Bah