Isatou Touray

“In this mission, I seek your support to help build a brighter future for our country.”

“If elected, I will restore the sovereignty of the people, end impunity, and decentralize power and authority. I am committed to serving only one term, during which I will collaborate with all political parties and Gambians who are ready and willing to guide the country in a direction that addresses the needs and aspirations of the people.”

“Those in power are ignoring calls for political and economic reform. The conditions for political participation have been designed in a way that limits political pluralism, leaving many feeling powerless. Excessive power is concentrated in the hands of a few, and we need a new approach to governance that includes the people in decisions that impact them. Decision-makers are often not held accountable for their actions on behalf of others.”

“Driven by a profound concern for The Gambia and a commitment to our nation's progress, free from repression, abuse, impunity, and persecution, I have closely observed the current situation over the years.”

“I have also heard your frustrations, and I am inspired and motivated by you, the Gambian people, and your strong desire for change despite the severe economic hardships and the restrictions on our freedom and personal liberties.”

“Over the past two decades, I have traveled across this country, meeting hardworking men and women in cities, towns, and villages, and listening to your stories and aspirations.”

“I am Dr. Isatou Touray, an independent candidate running for the office of President of the Republic of The Gambia.”

“I was kept in the dark throughout the process, despite making every effort to fully participate. However, Mrs. Fatoumatta Tambajang, for reasons unknown, was not forthcoming.”

“We are not upholding transparency and accountability. If we begin like this, it's a non-starter, because we aim to bring about positive change.”

“For you to hold a convention that I was supposed to be part of, and then only present the document meant to legitimize my participation afterward, shows that we are not promoting good governance.”

“I have come to understand the nature of the system during the process. Although I was present, it was unfair and undemocratic; there was a lack of transparency, and I was marginalized for not being included in it.”

“Despite all my efforts, I realized that I was not being recognized within the space. I understood that it was the same trust or lack thereof, that has existed for 22 years, a longstanding mistrust between the parties, and that this same feeling was now being directed towards me.”

“I entered the presidential race as an independent candidate to champion the will of the people, addressing the concerns of Gambians both at home and in the diaspora.”

“"I explained that I am available and still a reliable option they can trust. I am here to work for the country's progress, not for personal gain.”

“I was sidelined, marginalized, and discriminated against, but that didn’t affect me because I believed I joined this space to advance democracy for the people.”

“During that meeting, after making my presentation, there were comments. I took them into consideration, and when I returned the third time, I brought everything they suggested, as I believed it was critical, important, and addressed the need at hand.”

“"I have not shared them with the public because I believed it was an internal matter. It was important for us to address these issues privately, as it is all about promoting good governance, managing the process, and working as leaders to move The Gambia beyond its current situation."”

“"I did not pull out of the coalition; what actually happened is that I was sidelined. I joined with the intention of working in unity to achieve the common goal of bringing change to The Gambia—so that we could build a young generation ready to take on leadership and responsibility in the future, while creating an environment that enables the people to thrive."”

“"I want to make it clear to the world that all these efforts are aimed at promoting democracy in The Gambia, because we all seek change, and those in the diaspora also desire positive change for our country."”

“"I need to return to the people to consult with them.”