By: Binta Jaiteh
The Public Relations Officer of Serrekunda Market Committee, Sulayman Dampha, has called on Gambian youth to vote wisely in the upcoming 2026 Presidential Elections, urging them to consider the country’s future when casting their votes.
Speaking in an interview with The Voice Newspaper on Wednesday, Mr. Dampha advised young people to be vigilant and thoughtful in their electoral choices, emphasizing that leadership decisions made at the polls will significantly impact the nation’s future.
Dampha stressed the importance of empowering the youth, describing them as a crucial demography in national development. He highlighted that youth unemployment remains a pressing issue, and without sustainable job opportunities, many are forced to seek better lives abroad.
“This is the reason why a lot of them embark on irregular migration in search of greener pastures,” he said. “I wonder if the Ministry of Youth and Sports is even functioning, given the challenges young people face.”
He warned against political manipulation, urging citizens not to be swayed by self-serving politicians.
“We need patriotic and competent leaders who can rescue this country from the current mess. Gambia is small, yet development is a major problem. What’s causing that?” Dampha questioned.
Reflecting on the past two decades, he lamented the hardships endured during the former regime and expressed concern that history might be repeating itself.
“That’s why we supported the coalition to change the system. But now it seems the same issues are creeping back. When will Gambia be truly free from hardship?” he asked.
Mr. Dampha linked rising crime rates—such as corruption, robbery, and murder—to the on-going struggles faced by youth, exacerbated by high unemployment and lack of accountability in government.
He criticized the government’s handling of rising fuel and food prices, saying, “Poor citizens cannot continue to suffer while the government enjoys comfort.”
He also decried the devastating impact of irregular migration, describing it as a national crisis.
“We’ve lost hundreds of young lives to irregular migration. These are our future assets. Parents are left mourning. It’s sad and unbearable,” he said.
Addressing the country’s economic woes, he described the national debt as “unfavorable for such a small country” and warned that future generations would bear the consequences of poor leadership and mismanagement.
“The only way to change this is to tighten our belts and elect competent leaders. The 2026 elections will be crucial, given the challenges we face,” he remarked.
Finally, Dampha appealed for national unity and an end to tribalism.
“If we are to rescue this country, we must fight tribalism. No more dictatorship—enough is enough.”
