By Binta Jaiteh
The National Assembly Member (NAM) for Badibou Central, Sulayman Saho, has described President Adama Barrow’s Meet-the-People-Tour as political propaganda coming ahead of the December 5 presidential election.
In an interview with The Voice Newspaper on Tuesday, Saho questioned the purpose of the tour, accusing the president and his ministers of turning it into a political platform rather than an opportunity to address citizens’ concerns.
“We want Barrow to step down. Enough is enough. Gambians are tired and we want change,” he said.
Saho argued that the tour should provide a platform for discussing citizens’ aspirations and addressing their concerns, rather than promoting messages that could fuel ethnic divisions and conflict.
He said he did not expect such messages from President Barrow and a leader should set an example for others to follow.
He further accused some government ministers of making statements that could deepen divisions among Gambians since the start of the tour.
“Time has come for Barrow to accept defeat,” Saho said, citing what he described as growing criticisms and allegations against the government as evidence of its shortcomings.
The lawmaker also raised concerns about the difficulties farmers face in accessing fertiliser, particularly because of its high cost, which he said was placing additional pressure on rural farming communities.
Saho accused President Barrow of using the tour to canvass for votes and attract members of opposition parties, arguing that such efforts could undermine political pluralism.
He said the tour should instead focus on national renewal, addressing youth unemployment and presenting practical solutions to the country’s development challenges.
Saho also criticized the president for comparing his administration with those of former presidents Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara and Yahya Jammeh, questioning the achievements of the current government.
“What has he done other than embezzling public funds?” he asked, making an allegation against the president without providing evidence.
The lawmaker challenged the Minister of Finance to explain the reported withdrawal of D70 million for the Meet-the-People -Tour, calling for greater transparency and accountability in public spending.
Saho called on opposition parties to support the presidential candidacy of Ousainou Darboe, citing his campaign message of “one term, one vision, one mission, and national renewal”.
He said the Gambia First Coalition, under Darboe’s leadership was prepared to present a manifesto outlining its proposed approach to national development.