Voters always yearn for peace and democracy to prevail, as they decide at the polls. When democracy prevails, everything works accordingly and people make their choices freely in peace, just condition and relaxed atmosphere. This is the way politics should be - where there is always a winner and a loser like sport, without violence and bitter rancour.
Essentially politics should not divide us, and politicians should endeavour to always promote peace, unity and development. Rather than castigating one another, using abusive language or foul words and making seditious statements and false allegations, politicians should concentrate on selling their political agenda to the electorate, so the people could decide who is good for them.
This latest outcome of election result in Banjul South is a wake-up call for politicians and political parties in the country, that they should do their homework well as the nation approaches the forthcoming Presidential election in 2026.
Tobaski concerns
Mr President Tobaski is scheduled for June 6th this year, according to the calendars, upon the sighting of the moon.
As that date draws closer, we are concerned that the value of the CFA currency is increasing speedily. Lately 5,000 CFA has got toD625 and as Tobaski approaches, the CFA demand would start to increase and foreign exchange dealers on the streets would exploit the situation by increasing the exchange rate, which should not be tolerated.
Mr President, your government should also make arrangements with neighbouring countries such as Senegal, Mali and Mauritania to allow for the smooth or unhindered flow of livestock into The Gambia. Government should ensure rams and goats are sold in The Gambia at affordable prices.
We also hope and pray that before such a time towards the Tobaski, Kanilai Ferry, which is the second grand vessel of the country, is ready for active operation in order to fill the ferry service gap in the country and minimise the travel constraints of the people.
Mr President, by now the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food Security, together with the Ministry Trade and the Ministry of Health, should set up a steering committee with the help of Immigration department, GPA, area councils and municipalities, and GRA to plan for the whole process and period leading to Tobaski. The Central Bank should effectively monitor the exchange rate of the CFA to the Dalasi to discourage any dishonest act or operation. Commercial banks should also assist honest trade customers to secure the required forex to fulfill their international trading roles for merchandise.
The proposed committee should consider or determine and announce strategic places for the sale of livestock across the Greater Banjul Area and by extension the country.
Fundamentally, Mr President, government should support livestock dealers by helping them with more resources and incentives to breed adequate livestock in The Gambia to reduce dependency and high importation with all its disadvantages.
Good day!