While he waits for the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) to formally approve his registration, economist Dr. Ousman Gajigo has declared the creation of his new political party, the Patriotic Progressive Alliance (PPA).
Dr. Gajigo stated in an exclusive interview that the party would be formally launched after registration is complete and that all necessary paperwork has been sent to the IEC.
“Once we receive notification from IEC and are officially registered, we will formally launch the party,” Dr. Gajigo stated.
Although the party’s flag bearer will be chosen through an open internal procedure, he stated that he now leads the PPA.
Dr. Gajigo gave an explanation of the PPA’s origins, stating that it was founded out of a profound concern for the country’s future. “The nation’s current course is untenable. We are in a dire situation with our economy. He bemoaned, “Billions of Dalasi are being wasted.”
He said the Gambians deserved a real alternative to the current government, which he characterized as having bad governance and economic mismanagement.
The current administration is incapable of handling the situation. It is intolerable to think that this will continue in that manner in the future. And we think it’s important to provide the Gambian people an alternative,” he continued.
Dr. Gajigo stressed that the PPA’s goal is to replace the current government with one that is competent, responsible, and dedicated to resolving the nation’s urgent problems, not only to overthrow it.
He added that although The Gambia has a large number of political parties, few of them provide real hope or revolutionary concepts. Adding that “real change” is what the Gambians need.
Regarding possible alliances, Dr. Gajigo stated that he would be open to working with other political organizations, but only if their beliefs and objectives aligned. “Alignments are welcome, but only with the appropriate parties and people who share our vision for genuine change in The Gambia,” he clarified.
Citing his desire to help the Gambian people and effect genuine change, he vehemently denied ever joining the current administration. “I have no possibility whatsoever of joining the Adama Barrow administration. “I want to serve the Gambian people, not pursue wealth or a position,” he said.
Thus, the Patriotic Progressive Alliance presents itself as a brand-new political force that promises change, accountability, and a new course for the future of The Gambia.
