Video PlayerClose

BANJUL, Feb. 18 (Xinhua) -- The Gambian President Adama Barrow called on citizens to remain united by not succumbing to their ethnicity and partisan differences at the detriment of national development as he addressed thousands at the country's 55th anniversity of independence in Banjul on Tuesday.

He said the status of independence sovereign state means The Gambia is responsible for managing its affairs without any external interference, therefore, it's a moment that should trigger thoughts to guide citizens to define their individual roles in order to re-positioning the country better on the global stage.

"Let us demonstrate that we are capable of managing our affairs by accommodating our differences, celebrating our successes, providing feedback with discipline and expressing our own opinions in respect and dignity," Barrow said, stressing "we must be aware of all divisive speeches, actions, sentiments... that may lead to social division in our communities".

Barrow called for unity and active deliberations on national issues and not on partisan and conflict interest.

"As true sons and daughters of The Gambia, this is a moment to reflect on the implications of independence, not only political independence but also social and economic independence," he indicated.

The Gambia attained its independence on the February 18th, 1965 from the British, ending its decades of colonial rule.