Former Vice President under President Adama Barrow’s administration, Madam Fatoumatta Jallow-Tambajang, has officially confirmed her candidacy for the 2026 presidential election, signaling her intent to lead The Gambia towards a future rooted in inclusive governance and democratic reform.
The declaration came during her keynote address at the Sahel Governance Forum on Wednesday 30 July 2025 at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre in Bijilo. The event was dedicated to promoting inclusive leadership and amplifying women’s roles in politics across the Sahel region.
Speaking to an audience of regional leaders, activists and policymakers, Tambajang called on women to break through societal barriers and seize leadership opportunities. “The time for hesitation is over,” she stated, emphasising the need for bold action to address governance challenges.
The forum, held in Banjul, underscored the importance of transitioning from rhetoric to tangible progress in fostering equitable political systems.
Tambajang’s announcement marks a significant moment in Gambian politics, as she becomes one of the first high-profile figures to confirm her candidacy for the 2026 election.
A seasoned politician and advocate, Tambajang served as Secretary of States for Health and Social Welfare from 1994 to 1995 in the cabinet of the Armed Forces Provisional Ruling Council of Yahya Jammeh.
She was appointed as Minister of Women’s Affairs and later as Vice-President in November 2017, following the historic defeat of long-time ruler Yahya Jammeh. She served as vice president from 2017 to 2018 and has continued to champion gender equality and social justice.
Her political career spans decades, with a legacy deeply tied to The Gambia’s democratic transition. Madam Jallow-Tambajang played a pivotal role in the post-2016 political shift, helping to stabilize the country after Jammeh’s 22-year authoritarian rule.
As a mediator and peace advocate, she contributed to national reconciliation efforts and worked to strengthen democratic institutions. Her regional influence extends through her involvement in peacebuilding initiatives across the Sahel, earning her respect as a voice for unity and progress. She also represented Commonwealth and the UN as a key mediator in the June 24, 2023 disputed elections of no result in Sierra Leone.
Tambajang’s candidacy is expected to energize discussions around women’s leadership in a country where patriarchal norms have historically limited political participation. Her platform, though not yet fully detailed, is likely to focus on inclusive governance, economic empowerment, and regional stability, aligning with her long-standing advocacy.
As The Gambia prepares for the 2026 election, Tambajang’s entry into the race sets the stage for a competitive contest. Political analysts anticipate her campaign will challenge existing power dynamics, urging voters to prioritize experience and a vision for a more equitable future.
