By Mafugi Ceesay
The five National Reconciliation Party members in parliament have refuted reports that they have taken bribes from President Barrow so he could run for the party when he so desires.
They equally denied claims that the party is deeply divided over the issue as to whether to make Barrow their leader.
Speaking at a press conference at the national assembly yesterday, the NRP NAMs also dismissed allegations that they received gifts from President Barrow such as taxis and Tobaski rams, for some long-serving members of the party including the driver of Hamat Bah.
The allegations were widely peddled on social media and one newspaper picked it up in recent edition.
It also followed remarks by NRP leader Hamat Bah, who at a recent public meeting said he would not mind to let Barrow stand for NRP if the need arises.
But among the five members: Samba Jallow, Minority Leader, Alhagie Mbowe, Amadou Camara and Ousman Touray all denied witnessing any meeting where matters dealing with Barrow or similar issues were raised.
“We never discussed with the President to lead the NRP or to be a member of the NRP or to make him a flag bearer in 2021. It never happened.
We only saw the fake news circulating on social media and on at least one print media,” Jallow said.
Jallow however said the NRP leader Hamat Bah made such pronouncements at a meeting in Sarebojo but Bah had said that on his accord and was not generally reflecting the consent of the party.
Honorable Amadou Camara, member for Nianija constituency said any suggestion that NRP will give the party to Barrow is not logical.
“Even a lunatic will not just jump and give Barrow the leadership of the party. We don’t have such powers.
These are allegations from detractors trying to divide us,” he said.
His colleague Alhagie Mbowe, Member for Upper Saloum Constituency, said they have never met with President Barrow to discuss any such topic but the
NRP is open to any responsible citizen that is ready to work for the development of the country.
He said when it comes to leadership of the party that can only be decided through a congress.
Ousman Touray, Member for Saba-Sanjali Constituency expressed similar sentiments.
