However, one issue that remains a concern is the low voter turnout as seen in the previous elections. History revealed that Gambian voters only prioritise presidential elections and apart from that all other elections are deemed less important. It is high time people do away with such mentality as Local Government elections dictate our future development.
Large turnout of voters in any election also gives credibility, thereby strengthening our electoral systems. The dismal voter turnout in the last councillorship election was not encouraging and did not tell well about our democracy.
As voters, we have a duty to elect candidates we deem fit and trustworthy to steer the affairs of our councils and municipalities in the next five years. Therefore, this election is directly about us, as it informs our decision as far as future development is concerned. Therefore, our voices and active involvement matter the most.
In one of our editorials, we highlighted that it is through elections that people’s power can be validly delegated to choose representatives. Therefore, it is incumbent on every eligible voter to make his or her voice heard in any given election.
Let’s not forget that councils form an integral pillar in spearheading development projects to better serve the people. This is achieved through proper handling of checks and balances of proceeds accrued from trades, licences, waste collection, markets’ rates and taxes among others. From feeder roads, schools, scholarships to urban markets, etc, council’s role is indispensable in that endeavour.
Nevertheless, the National Council for Civic Education (NCCE) and its partners in the past weeks have intensified their advocacy in all corners of the country to sensitise the public about the importance of election.
It would be an awkward decision to possess a voter's card for the sake of possessing it. Let’s remember that it was issued for a reason and that mission must be fulfilled.
Once again, let’s not downplay the importance of this forthcoming election. When we vote we can make a big difference in the way our councils are governed.