By: Binta Jaiteh
The Members of the National Youth Parliament (NYP) have raised concerns over the increase in irregular migration and rampant murder cases in the country.
The Trio described the increase as a lack of job opportunities, urging the government to create more jobs to minimize the challenge.
Speaking during the 10th Ordinary Session of the Youth Parliament sitting, Representative of Persons with Disabilities Modou Lamin Kujabi stressed the recent murder cases happening in the country.
According to him, Gambia was secure, and people moved freely without fear, but currently citizens are scared to walk late at night due to the insecurity.
“I am concerned about the situation of the PWD. We are in this condition. We can’t protect ourselves. If able-bodied people are dying. How can we, people living with disabilities, escape?” he asked.
The Representative of PWD’s also emphasized the educational system, calling for systemic change to rescue the coming generation of leaders.
The Member of Illiasa, Muhammed Mustapha Jange, reiterated the increase in irregular migration, adding that North Bank is the most affected region in this challenge.
He disclosed that Jinack and Essau are the primary departure centres to the Canary Islands, while adding that irregular migration will continue to rise if the Youth are not employed.
“We cannot eradicate irregular migration if the youth continue to face employment challenges. If this trend continues, more lives will perish in the sea, and that can affect development and the youth group,” he added.
Badibou Central Youth Parliament Chippo Bah expressed dismay over the current situation of the country.
“Teachers, police officers and other civil servants embark on this dangerous journey due to the rising cost of basic commodities, unemployment and low salary,” she queried.
According to her, an official receiving less than five thousand dalasi at the end of the day will find it difficult to address other challenges.
She, therefore, tasked the government to address the challenges citizens are facing and also the rampant murder cases in the country, which are undermining the country’s peace.