Recently, Nianija has found itself entangled in accusations regarding a purported scheme aimed at hindering the establishment of a maternity ward in Chamen. This scheme encompasses Seedy S.K. Njie, the Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, as well as District Village Chief Dawda York and National Assembly Member Amadou Camara, who serves the Nianija Constituency in the National Assembly, among others.
Nianija is a unique locale characterised by the prevalence of familial ties among its residents, creating a distinctive social fabric. Typically, issues were resolved within the organisation; however, the reason this specific problem transcended the boundaries of Nianija lies in the fact that certain factions within the government endeavoured to politicise the construction of a maternity ward, seeking to ensure that the government garnered ultimate recognition for the initiative.
The current government prioritises politics over the well-being of the people, politics over women’s health, politics over unity, politics over peace, and politics over development. The proposed construction of the Chamen Maternity Ward reveals the shortcomings, falsehoods, and duplicity of certain government officials. Nianijans have suffered in silence for far too long. The people of Nianija chose to present their case to the public, allowing them to make their own judgement. If left to the government, Gambians may never uncover the truth of this situation.
The political landscape in Gambia necessitates profound transformation; it is imperative to eradicate political opportunism and guarantee equitable development for all citizens. A President is chosen to serve the entirety of the populace, rather than exclusively catering to the interests of his supporters. It is crucial for Gambians to understand that if the Chamen project had been entrusted to the government, it would not have faced the possibility of revocation.
To foster public assurance in the government’s commitment to democratic ideals and the rule of law, it is imperative to commence an inquiry designed to ensure accountability for those who bear responsibility. The onus now rests with the government, and failing to address the revocation of the maternity ward clearance in Nianija will inevitably exacerbate public dissatisfaction with governmental authority.
