The National Council for Civic Education (NCCE) in The Gambia has called on political actors and other stakeholders to promote peaceful political participation, tolerance and responsible communication ahead of the December 5, 2026, presidential election.
The call was made during a one-day national stakeholder dialogue held in Kanifing, with support from Catholic Relief Services (CRS) under the HOPE Project.
The dialogue focused on strengthening peaceful coexistence and preventing political differences from deepening divisions in society. It was held under the theme, “Bridging the Divide: Fostering Social Cohesion and Peace.”
Participants discussed ways to address divisive rhetoric, encourage constructive dialogue and promote respect for differing political views as the country prepares for the election.
The engagement also highlighted concerns about the impact of political communication on national unity, with participants emphasising the need for public discourse that encourages understanding rather than hostility.
Stakeholders stressed the importance of rejecting violence, hate speech and exclusion as tools of political competition, while promoting dialogue, empathy and collaboration to maintain peace.
By Sang Donald Mendy
