As president, you should have led the delegation and actively lobbied your counterparts well in advance of the election. Emissaries should have been sent to other heads of state to seek their support. You should have been the campaign manager as President Nana Akufo-Addo did for Ghana.
Mr President, the recently concluded Commonwealth Election is a good example of the importance of building meaningful international relations. The government should take this experience to heart and foster strong relationships with other Commonwealth leaders to ensure that The Gambia is regarded with seriousness. There is a need to revisit our international policy. Within six months, Gambia hasn’t done well in terms of diplomacy. Last May, during the OIC summit in Banjul, 56 heads of state were supposed to attend but only 6 of them did, and the majority of them were within the sub-region. We should learn our lessons, accept criticisms and have round-table discussions with our retired diplomats to point out the lapses in our foreign policy and come up with solutions.
Mr President, The Gambia should strive to achieve good governance, strengthen international relations, democracy and press freedom, and conduct a thorough review of its policies. This approach will not only enhance its domestic stability but also improve its standing on the global stage. We say to Tangara, better Luck next time!
We congratulate Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, on her significant victory in securing the position of Secretary-General of the Commonwealth. She will take office for a four-year term starting in April 2025.
Social development
Mr President, this year’s rainy season has severely impacted many communities across The Gambia, with intense flooding disrupting daily life, damaging homes, and affecting local infrastructure. Many families are struggling to access essential services, including clean drinking water, healthcare, and transportation, while the heavy rains have worsened sanitation challenges, particularly in rural and low-lying urban areas.
People in Ebo Town, Bundung and other areas in KMC and West Coast Region continue to struggle with limited access to clean water, damaged roads, and frequent power outages due to the heavy rains. Flooded homes and streets have created ongoing sanitation issues, increasing health risks, especially for children and the elderly. Many residents are also facing economic challenges as their livelihoods are disrupted, with local businesses and farmers bearing the brunt of the severe weather conditions.
Mr President, while the roads connecting the Greater Banjul Area are being rehabilitated, the people of Latrikunda Sabiji, Wellingara, Nema and Coastal Road have been struggling with poor drainage, and potholes that make daily commuting difficult. These issues not only hinder access to essential services but also increase wear on vehicles and raise transportation costs for residents.
Mr President, it is imperative that you come to the aid of the people of Ebo Town, Bundung, Latrikunda Sabiji and other communities that continue to struggle during these difficult times and ensure that the next rainy season will cause less suffering and misery for the people of these communities. Municipal councils also have a crucial role in tackling community issues and facilitating local development. They should engage directly with residents to identify specific challenges, such as the presence of roadside mechanics, which can impede traffic flow and pose safety hazards. Additionally, proactive engagement from municipal councils can lead to cleaner, safer and more organised communities that enhance the quality of life for all residents.
Good day!