By Binta Jaiteh
Sulayman Dampha, Public Relations Officer (PRO) of Bundung Constituency has urged Gambians to vote wisely as the country prepares for the presidential election.
Speaking in an interview with The Voice Newspaper, Dampha criticized President Adama Barrow’s administration, accusing it of corruption, poor governance and failing to address the challenges facing citizens.
Dampha alleged that public funds were being mismanaged while Gambians continued to face economic hardship and unemployment.
He called on the government to prioritize issues affecting citizens, particularly healthcare, education, crime and irregular migration.
“The citizens are suffering. Barrow has betrayed us. The promises he made during his campaign were never fulfilled. We deserve better as citizens. How can we continue to face these hardships? Till when?” he asked.
Dampha further questions President Barrow’s ability to govern the country, arguing that The Gambia needs a leader who is qualified, accountable and capable of addressing the country’s challenges.
“Gambia needs a leader who is qualified, smart and accountable. The situation in the country is scary. We continue to receive reports of deaths, knowingly or unknowingly. What is the government doing to address these challenges?” he said.
He also accused some members of the government of misleading the president and attributed what he described as the country’s problems to greed and poor leadership.
Dampha said President Barrow had initially pledged to serve for five years and leave office, but alleged that the president had since changed his position.
He also criticised the ruling National People’s Party (NPP), accusing it of using financial incentives to attract support from economically vulnerable citizens.
Turning on to the country’s electricity crisis, Dampha called for reforms at the National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC), including changes in its management.
“We cannot continue to pay for electricity without receiving the service. For years, citizens have continued to face electricity shortages. What is the institution doing to address this challenge?” he asked.
He said reliable electricity was essential for households and businesses, particularly small-scale businesses operated by women.
Dampha called for what he described as a change in the system, improved governance and stronger security measures, saying the country’s current situation was a cause for concern.