Mama Kandeh, the leader and secretary general of the Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC), has characterized President Adama Barrow’s administration as the most corrupt in the history of the country.
Kandeh stated to journalists that the extent of corruption within the current government is unparalleled.
“The type of corruption that exists in this country today has never happened in the history of The Gambia,” he stated.
Kandeh highlighted the GDC’s dedication to combating corruption and putting an end to the exploitation of Gambian youth. He expressed discontent with the government for repeatedly granting significant contracts, like road construction projects, to foreign firms rather than supporting Gambians.
“We should empower our youth and equip them with skills. But here, most contracts are awarded to foreign companies. Why can’t Gambians handle these projects? Is it because we lack the skills? GDC will fight against this,” he said.
He also committed that the GDC would uphold workers’ rights and enhance national security to combat armed robbery and other crimes.
“You cannot just employ people and fire them at will. GDC will ensure fairness and stability. We will also work to improve security across the country,” he added.
Kandeh emphasized his party’s long-term vision, stating that the GDC is the sole political party with a national development plan extending from 2026 to 2050.
“We are not only thinking about today or tomorrow, but about the future of The Gambia,” he stated.
Kandeh emphasized the importance of modernizing agriculture as a means to attain self-sufficiency and economic independence.
“We must modernize our agricultural sector, as true independence cannot be claimed if we are unable to feed ourselves,” he stated.
He warned voters not to trust politicians who pledge to reduce food prices without a genuine commitment to investing in agriculture.
“Any politician who claims they can lower food prices without investing in agriculture is not being honest,” Kandeh cautioned.
Kandeh wrapped up by contrasting the agricultural spending of the current administration with that of former President Yahya Jammeh’s era in a negative light.
“In Jammeh’s era, the agriculture budget exceeded the levels we observe today.” How can we anticipate sustaining ourselves when merely one and a half percent of the national budget is allocated to agriculture? He inquired.
