By Dawda M. Jallow
Independent presidential aspirant Dr Isatou Touray on Saturday launched her bid for the 2026 presidential election, unveiling what she described as a blueprint for building The Gambia’s Third Republic based on accountable leadership, economic recovery and institutional reform.
Speaking at the Brikama SSP Ground during the declaration of her independent candidacy, Dr Touray who was former vice-president said Gambians deserved a government that delivered results and addressed the country’s persistent socio-economic challenges.
“Gambians have been asked to choose between promises and disappointment. Elections come and go, yet many of the challenges facing our nation remain, including the rising cost of living, youth unemployment, unreliable public services, weak institutions and declining public trust,” she said.
Dr Touray described her manifesto as a practical roadmap for national renewal rather than a collection of campaign promises.
“It is not a catalogue of promises. It is a practical plan for national renewal. As an independent candidate, I am not seeking power for a political party. I am seeking the opportunity to serve the Gambian people and help build a country that works for everyone,” she said.
She said her administration would prioritise democratic renewal through stronger institutions, accountable governance and constitutional reforms aimed at strengthening public confidence in state institutions.
On the economy, Dr Touray pledged to create jobs, support businesses, reduce the cost of living and promote sustainable economic growth.
She also promised to adopt a zero-tolerance policy on corruption by strengthening oversight institutions, enforcing asset declaration requirements for senior public officials and publishing major public contracts and public debt obligations.
To address the rising cost of living, she said her government would establish a National Cost of Living Taskforce within its first 100 days in office and review taxes and administrative measures affecting the prices of essential commodities.
In the energy sector, Dr Touray pledged to invest in electricity infrastructure, renewable energy and energy efficiency while improving the operational performance of the National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC) and encouraging public-private partnerships in green energy projects.
Her manifesto also proposes reforms in education, including improving literacy, science and mathematics education, expanding vocational and technical training, strengthening teacher development and improving school infrastructure.
In the health sector, she pledged to upgrade hospitals and clinics, improve access to essential medicines, recruit and retain healthcare workers, expand community healthcare services and strengthen mental health support.
Dr Touray also promised to enhance the participation of Gambians living abroad by guaranteeing diaspora voting rights, encouraging diaspora investment and establishing a Diaspora Development Bond to support national infrastructure projects.
Concluding her address, she described reliable and affordable energy as central to national development.
“Reliable energy is the foundation of national development. It powers businesses, creates jobs, supports farmers, improves healthcare, strengthens education and drives economic growth,” she said.