Gambia’s Civic Education Chief Calls for Political Tolerance Ahead of Presidential Election

The Chairman of the National Council for Civic Education (NCCE) in The Gambia, Modou A. Sise, has called on political, religious and community leaders to promote tolerance and peaceful dialogue as the country prepares for the 2026 presidential election.

Sise made the appeal over the weekend during a structured dialogue session with political actors and community representatives in Jarra Bureng in the Lower River Region.

The event was organized in partnership with CRS Gambia under the HOPE Project and forms part of broader efforts aimed at strengthening civic awareness and preventing election-related tensions.

Similar dialogue sessions were also held in Bwiam in the West Coast Region, reaching approximately 500 influential community figures, including political leaders, activists and local stakeholders.

Speaking during the engagement, Sise emphasized the responsibility of political actors and community leaders in safeguarding national stability during the electoral process.

“Our mission through these structured dialogues is to bridge divides and foster social cohesion and peace,” he said.

According to Sise, the initiative seeks to encourage constructive democratic participation and reduce political polarization by promoting dialogue among different groups.

He added that open and sincere engagement can help ensure political disagreements remain healthy democratic debates rather than sources of conflict.

With the country preparing for the next electoral cycle, Sise reminded citizens of their collective responsibility to maintain peace and stability.

Sise also noted that the NCCE’s mandate includes educating citizens about their rights while encouraging them to respect democratic processes and reject actions that could threaten national unity.

He urged leaders across political, religious and community spheres to set an example by promoting tolerance and dialogue.

Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Inter-Party Committee in the Lower River Region, Pateh Jallow, stressed the importance of sustained dialogue in addressing hate speech and discrimination within communities.

The Gambia is set to hold its presidential election on 5 December 2026, with incumbent President Adama Barrow seeking a third term in office.