Dr. Isatou Touray, former Vice President and an aspirant for the 2026 presidential election, has acknowledged her role in the shortcomings of the Adama Barrow administration, stating she cannot entirely distance herself from its failures. Dr. Touray declared her presidential ambition is motivated by her vision for The Gambia's future, rather than personal grievances. She explicitly stated her belief that her political ambition is driven by what she perceives as necessary for the country's future trajectory. "Barrow has failed, to a great extent," Dr. Touray stated, adding, "But I will not exonerate myself from that failure. I was part of it." Dr. Touray candidly admitted that she cannot completely distance herself from the failures of the Barrow administration. She clarified her executive limitations, noting, "We can only recommend, we can only engage, and we can give our advice, but that’s where it ends." Dr. Touray also remarked, "I am very proud to be associated with that," and emphasized, "The reason I want to challenge Barrow has nothing to do with between me and Barrow; it’s about the Gambians."
Unfulfilled Transition Promises
Isatou Touray stated that the administration had agreed on a clear plan of action following the 2016 change of government. This full plan was established at the outset of the new political era. According to Touray, this plan included specific targets for transitional justice, constitutional review, institutional strengthening, and addressing corruption. She indicated that these commitments were made at the outset of the administration's term, representing foundational promises to the Gambian people. These targets were considered key for solidifying the democratic gains made after years of authoritarian rule.
Touray identified the failure to deliver a new constitution as one of the most significant shortcomings of the administration. She explained that the absence of a new constitutional framework represented a major unmet promise from the initial transition period, which was a key component of the agreed-upon plan of action. This unfulfilled promise, according to Dr. Touray, has had significant implications for the country's governance and future.
Touray's Ministerial and VP Roles
Dr. Isatou Touray clarified the operational limitations of her past executive positions within the administration. She explained that individuals in ministerial or vice presidential roles could primarily make recommendations, engage in discussions, and offer advice, with the ultimate decision-making authority residing solely with the president. She further elaborated that members of the administration, including herself, were limited to these advisory capacities, with final authority always resting with the head of state. During her tenure, Dr. Touray held several key ministerial portfolios, initially serving as the Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment. She later transitioned to the role of Minister of Health and Social Welfare, where she continued to contribute her expertise. Her service culminated in her appointment as Vice President, a position she held before her current presidential aspirations. These roles provided her with an intimate understanding of the administration's inner workings and decision-making processes.
Motivation for 2026 Candidacy
Dr. Isatou Touray stated her decision to challenge President Adama Barrow in the December 2026 presidential election is driven by her belief that promises made during the 2016 political transition have not been fulfilled. She indicated that the administration has fallen short on commitments made following the change from an authoritarian regime. Touray expressed pride in the progress achieved during the 2016 transition, which saw the country move towards democracy. She noted the significance of this period, noting the substantial shift from an authoritarian regime to a more democratic system. However, she believes the subsequent administration has failed to build adequately on that foundation, leading to her presidential bid. She further acknowledged that the government failed to complete the democratic reforms that had been promised to the populace.
Accountability and Future Vision
Dr. Isatou Touray stated she accepts responsibility for what went wrong during the Adama Barrow administration, acknowledging her direct involvement as part of the government. She explained that she cannot entirely distance herself from the failures of the administration, given her senior roles within it. Touray further acknowledged that the government failed to complete democratic reforms that had been promised following the 2016 political transition. These reforms were key commitments at the outset of the administration's term but were ultimately not delivered, contributing to her decision to seek the presidency. Her acceptance of responsibility shows her commitment to addressing these systemic issues.
