Gambian President Adama Barrow. [Photo|Ikenga chronicles]A message is doing rounds on social media allegedly from Gambian President Adama Barrow to Kenya's opposition leader Raila Odinga.Bloggers and supporters of the NASA leader revived it and are widely spreading the statement where Barrow asks Odinga not to give up on his quest for democracy in Kenya.However, the message which is currently doing rounds especially on Facebook, was first published by pro-NASA social media accounts starting August 11 after August 8 general election which saw Uhuru Kenyatta declared victor.
This was however annulled by the Supreme Court following Odinga's petition.Below is the message, however it is not clear whether President Barrow is the author of the statement."THE GAMBIAN PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE TO RAILA.My brother Raila Amollo Odinga, I know too well that you’re aggrieved at the moment. Just like my case here in Gambia a couple of months ago, I was contesting for the position of the presidency,against the incumbent, Yahya Jammeh. He was such a powerful individual.In the run up for this position, I had a huge following from across the country. Our people went to the ballot fully convinced that their voice, for the first time in the history of our country’s politics, would be heard and respected. People came out in large numbers to express the true burnings of their hearts. They were tired of the oppressive regime of Yahya. They voted for me overwhelmingly.However, the incumbent, who practically enjoyed a good rapport with the Western World, was hesitant to facilitate smooth transition of power. I decided not to concede defeat. I was utterly confident that I was the legitimate winner. My supporters were ready for any eventuality. The International Observers, Regional Trade Union Observers as well as the United Nations,were swift to counsel me not to spark off violence and in lieu, follow the legal path as stipulated in our constitution.Surprisingly, I chose not to hearken unto these rhetoric. I remained steadfast in my quest to fight for our rights. I flew the country. My people back at home continued agitating for their rights. It was such a difficult moment! The widespread protest in our country, appealed to the outside world that our victory was snatched off our hands. Eventually, the countries that supported Jammeh, decided to supports us and consequently toppled him. I’m now the current president. My people are so happy.Lose hope not. You’re the hope for over 30 millions Kenyans. Don’t let them down. Do not be cowed by anybody. If you’re genuinely right, do not apologize to anyone for your actions.”Adama BarrowGambian President"