Lowe Warns Against ‘Nasty’ Tribal Politics After Controversial NPP Rally Remarks

By Dawda Baldeh

Rohey Malick Lowe, Mayor of the Banjul City Council, has criticised what she described as the growing use of ethnic rhetoric in Gambian politics following comments made by senior members of the ruling National People’s Party (NPP) during a rally in Farafenni.

Her reaction comes after remarks by Hamat NK Bah, Minister of Lands, Regional Government and Religious Affairs, who told supporters that a UDP victory would result in the marginalisation of certain ethnic groups.

“If you vote for UDP, they will chase all the Fulas and Wolofs out of this country,” Bah said.

The minister also warned against the prospect of a “foreigner” leading the country, stating: “We will not allow a foreigner to lead this country, if we do, Gambia will be the new Lebanon”.

While Bah did not mention anyone by name, some observers have interpreted the remarks as an apparent reference to Talib Ahmed Bensouda, leader of the UNITE movement, whose family is said to have Lebanese roots.

Responding to the comments, Mayor Lowe said political debate in The Gambia was increasingly shifting away from policies and programmes towards ethnic division.

“Gambian politics is no longer about policies and programs. It has now turned into tribal politics, and it is becoming nasty,” she said.

The mayor said she was deeply worried about the direction of the country’s political discourse and disappointed that leaders were resorting to divisive rhetoric rather than engaging voters on issues affecting their lives.

She also criticised Bah, arguing that his experience in public service should have been reflected in a more measured approach.

“I am calling on all Gambians, particularly women, to reject transactional, insulting, and ethnic-based rhetoric,” she said.

Mayor Lowe further said she was relieved that women leaders were not responsible for the statements that sparked the controversy.

The exchange adds to growing concerns over the tone of political campaigning ahead of the 2026 presidential election, as parties intensify efforts to mobilise support across the country.