By: Dawda M. Jallow
Residents of the West Coast Region have expressed frustration over prolonged delays in the issuance of national identity cards, despite having submitted applications several months ago.
The concerns were raised on Tuesday during visits to the Brikama Immigration Department, where affected applicants shared their experiences.
Several residents told The Voice Newspaper they had made repeated trips to the office without success, with no clear explanation from authorities regarding the delays.
Sireh Jallow, a resident of Lamin, said she applied for her ID card in December last year but is yet to receive it despite multiple follow-ups.
“I have come here four times, but each visit ends in disappointment. The immigration officers never explained the reason for the delay, and it is our right to know,” she said, adding that the situation has been stressful.
She noted that national ID cards are essential for adults over 18 and should be issued without unnecessary delay.
Another resident, Momodou Alieu Jallow, a businessman from Brikama Gidda, said the situation is affecting both personal and business activities, particularly cross-border travel.
“During our trips to Senegal, not having an ID causes constant challenges. I applied in October last year, and I am still waiting. It is frustrating, and I think it is time we formally complain to the Head of the Immigration Department,” he said.
He also argued that citizens deserve clear communication, especially after paying D1,500 for the service.
“We keep coming back only to be told it’s not ready. We need a proper explanation because this ID is essential for daily activities,” he added.
Fatoumatta Danso, 41, from Brikama Sateh Ba, also described the delays as burdensome, citing repeated travel expenses and inconvenience.
“I have been patient, but it is very stressful to apply for something and wait six months or more without receiving it. Sometimes I take a taxi because walking here is too far. These officers should ensure ID cards are ready in a timely manner,” she said.
Youth representative Saidou Jallow from Brikama Rumba called for improved efficiency, stressing the importance of national identification for everyday transactions and security checks.
“Without an ID, it is impossible to navigate daily life. Traffic officers and other authorities will not recognize your delay. The Immigration Department should act because this affects national development,” he said.
Other residents echoed similar concerns, urging the Immigration Department to provide clear reasons for the delays and ensure timely delivery of identity cards.
The complaints highlight growing public dissatisfaction over administrative bottlenecks and calls for improved efficiency and accountability at the Brikama Immigration Department.
