There are 364 candidates including 53 females that have been nominated for the upcoming local elections. There are nine political parties with 296 candidates and 68 independent candidates, and there are six political parties that did not nominate candidates.
While this is a good democratic exercise, we are appealing to politicians and the electorate to conduct themselves according to the laws of the elections and the land to preserve peace and calmness in the country.
On polling day, the electorates have the opportunity to go and vote for their choices or candidates and peacefully wait for the final official results.
Furthermore, it is advisable that people do not use the social media to trigger confusion and problems by announcing fake results. We are therefore calling for professionalism in our media reports.
It is also essential that the authorities take lawful and appropriate drastic measures against those who would try to fuel trouble in the country by preaching bad politics and announcing misleading results that may engender conflict. Let's cherish our democracy, which has been restored since 2017 when you assumed office, after 22 years of dictatorship and tyranny.
Mr President, in reality it does not make much sense to separate election of councillors and mayors. Financially it is more costly and the voter turnout would always be less. It will therefore be better to have it the same day as it was in the first Republic.
Also, Presidential and parliamentary elections should be conducted the same day as in the first Republic. Combining these elections on the same day will reduce cost drastically and will motivate voters to come out in large numbers.
Mr President, we want to draw your attention to the issue of NAWEC and electricity supply in the country. Since 22nd November 1977 (a Tobaski day), The Gambia has been struggling over the provision of regular electricity supply. Even though it has been better in the past three years, we still have challenges in the energy sector that need a Plan B while SENELEC and the Karpowership are providing electricity.
The Government should put in place and or accelerate the OMVG project. It will also be good to promote and have more solar energy lights in towns and villages. Contracts with other countries and institutions such as the Indians and Chinese are very good to boost the sector.
Mr President, having several irons in the fire to ensuring adequate electricity supply in the country is very important. This is because the energy need of the country is rapidly growing as development is taking place. Without enough and constant energy, the developments that your government is putting in place will be very difficult to maintain or sustain. Today in The Gambia, many settlements are being developed as social and economic projects continue to grow by leaps and bounds. For instance, business establishments including companies and factories as well as residential places are in need of adequate supply of electricity.
Good day!