“The private sector is killing our public enterprises,” Ceesay declared during the interview, as he criticised policies surrounding telecommunications, aviation and public procurement.
Ceesay cited Gamtel and Gamcel as examples of institutions he believes have suffered because of government decisions that favour private business interests.
He, however, clarified that the Gateway itself had long been liberalised, noting that his concern was more about discussions around the fibre line and broader privatisation efforts affecting the telecommunications sector.
According to him, decisions taken in recent years have weakened public institutions and affected workers. He alleged that business interests benefitting from government procurement arrangements have become influential because of their financial ties to the state.
“So this is why when you look at the business communities, they have an interest”, arguing that procurement corruption is largely driven by connections between businesses and government contracts.”
The Kiang West NAM further claimed that some private investors benefit from access to prime lands and procurement deals while ordinary Gambians continue to struggle with the cost of living and unemployment.
He also linked the issue to the condition of public enterprises, saying institutions established to protect public interest are gradually losing relevance because profit-making motives are being prioritised over service delivery and affordability.
“These public enterprises are not only meant to maximise profit for government,” he said, adding that they also exist to provide jobs, reliable services and value for money for Gambians.
Ceesay maintained that a future UDP government would not push investors away, but would instead create stronger laws to regulate the private sector and prevent monopolies in key industries.
“We are going to have good legislation that will empower the private sector, while insisting that investments must also protect consumers and national interests.”
He also accused the government of awarding contracts to unqualified contractors and alleged that kickbacks in the procurement process continue to affect the quality and timely completion of public projects.
