By Binta Jaiteh
Two officials of the United Democratic Party (UDP) have criticised the government’s decision to deny the party access to a conference centre, describing the move as politically motivated and an attempt to undermine opposition activities.
The officials, Busumbala National Assembly Member Muhammed Kanteh and UDP Youth President Hajie Suwaneh, made the remarks in separate comments to The Voice newspaper.
Kanteh argued that public facilities should be accessible to all citizens and organisations, regardless of their political affiliation.
He said the government should promote peaceful coexistence between the ruling party and opposition groups, stressing that all Gambians were citizens of the same country despite their political differences.
“Such actions can trigger chaos because we all have equal rights. I will raise this issue at the Assembly so that members can effectively deliberate on it,” Kanteh said.
Suwaneh also criticised the decision, alleging that the government was using its authority to restrict opposition activities.
“This is not the first time we have been denied. Just recently, the same venue was given to the ruling NPP. Now the UDP has been denied. What have we done?” he asked.
He alleged that public institutions were being used as political tools, arguing that such practices could undermine public confidence in state institutions.
Suwaneh also criticised the Gambia Radio and Television Services (GRTS) and the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), alleging that they were failing to provide equal treatment to political parties.
He questioned how Gambians could be expected to have confidence in the electoral process if public institutions were perceived to be subject to political interference.
The UDP Youth President called for constitutional and public-sector reforms, arguing that such reforms were necessary to strengthen democracy and ensure the independence of public institutions.
“Public service reforms should strengthen the independence of public institutions and free them from dictatorial political interference. Economic reforms create a conducive environment for the private sector,” Suwaneh said.
He also called for competent and accountable leadership capable of addressing corruption without political considerations.