By Kemo Kanyi
Bakary K. Badjie, leader of the opposition United Gambian Front (UGF), has alleged that the ruling National People’s Party (NPP) is planning to spend about one billion dalasis to influence voters ahead of the next presidential election.
Badjie made the claim during a political rally held at the Brikama SSP football ground on Saturday, where he described the forthcoming election as “a battle between truth and wealth,” and urged citizens to reject all forms of voter inducement.
“I was informed by a fellow politician that the NPP is preparing a D1 billion package for voter inducement in the upcoming presidential election. They will use money to buy motorcycles, cars, cooking utensils, and even loyalty,” he alleged.
The Foñi Bintang lawmaker says his decision to run for the presidency is motivated by a desire to restore the dignity of Gambians by improving their living conditions, which he described as unbearable.
He also criticised government spending, alleging that about D600 million had been allocated for per diems for senior officials, including ministers, permanent secretaries, directors and governors. According to him, many official travels place a burden on the country without yielding tangible benefits for citizens.
On youth employment, Badjie said many graduates from institutions such as the Gambia College School of Education, Agriculture, Public Health and Nursing, as well as the University of The Gambia, remain unemployed after completing their studies.
He attributed the situation partly to voting patterns influenced by inducements rather than competence, and called on citizens to reject vote-buying and work collectively to ensure credible elections.
The NPP has not publicly responded to the allegations.