By Sheriff Hydara
Talib Ahmed Bensouda, leader of the opposition UNITE Movement for Change (UMC), has urged Gambians to prioritize national unity and action to address the country’s economic, social, and security challenges in his New Year’s message to the nation.
Speaking on December 30, Bensouda highlighted the high cost of living, rising market prices, and the impact of fuel and electricity costs on ordinary Gambians. “The average Gambian finds it very hard to live in dignity,” he said, noting that public debt has climbed to a record D129.5 billion due to uncontrolled borrowing and the depreciation of the Dalasi.
Bensouda pointed to the untapped potential of key economic sectors, including tourism, agriculture, and fisheries, questioning whether the population is benefiting from the revenues generated. “Every Gambian deserves a life of dignity,” he said, calling for a government focused on people’s welfare.
The opposition leader expressed deep concern about youth unemployment, citing a Gbos survey that puts the national rate at 8.3%, with youth unemployment reaching 11.5%. He linked this crisis to the increasing number of young Gambians taking dangerous migration routes, referencing reports of 190 lives lost at sea in recent weeks.
Bensouda also condemned the inhumane conditions faced by Gambians stranded in Morocco and called for government intervention to ensure their safe return. “No young person should be so desperate that they risk their life,” he said, offering condolences to families affected.
Security concerns were also raised, following the recent killing of 21-year-old Isatou Fatty at her workplace. Bensouda described the incident as a “tragic and painful loss” and demanded justice for the victim.
On governance and accountability, he criticized the government for undermining the Auditor General’s office after the 2024 financial statements received an adverse opinion, revealing billions in unaccounted and missing funds. “A government that forcefully removes its own auditor general is not interested in fixing problems; it is only interested in protecting itself,” he said.
Environmental and coastline degradation, corruption, and inequitable distribution of resources were also cited as major challenges that need urgent attention.
The UNITE Movement for Change, Bensouda said, aims to address these issues by promoting a politics that serves the people first. He emphasized the importance of national dialogue, particularly involving youth, and outlined a vision for 2026 in which every Gambian benefits from economic opportunities, including in tourism, fisheries, and agriculture.
Bensouda concluded by calling for unity and decisive action, warning that the nation’s future depends on collective effort. “Change is not just possible, it is essential. No one will save us but ourselves,” he said, wishing Gambians a Happy New Year.