By: Nyima Sillah
Following the countdown on the Mayoral and Chairperson election scheduled for May 20, 2023, H.E. President Adama Barrow, during the telecast of his Eid-Il-Fitr message sermonized on peace, stability, and its importance to the nation.
In his words, “As we gear up for the mayoral and chairperson elections next month, let’s continue to seek political support with the utmost civility, keep the peace and stability, and adhere to the values of good governance and the rule of law.”
He reminded everyone that this year’s Ramadan coincided with the local government elections that were keenly contested and successfully conducted in the country and therefore congratulated the elected candidates while calling on those who lost to accept the results in good faith and uphold the democratic spirit of recognizing the will of the majority.
He opined that what matters most is serving the people in whatever way as a united community.
His Excellency, therefore, extolled the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) for the peaceful and orderly conduct of the elections and the activities leading to the occasion and the entire nation for their contribution to making the election a success.
However, the President added that his government will not relent in establishing and working through strong institutions that deliver a capable workforce that can efficiently take charge of the country’s socioeconomic development.
Meanwhile, he also addressed the success registered in the business sector and the trust partners have under his leadership. “My mission remains to meet the fulfillment of the social contract that binds me with the Gambian citizens following my re-election into office. My priority is to deliver on our campaign promises.”
On the side of development, the president said his government is conscious of the challenges and the impact of urbanization, noting his government empathizes with the public and in particular the school children.
This he said has prompted the importation and commissioning of 70 buses to improve public transport delivery and the modernization drive of the transport sector. However, he added the initiative is also in alignment with infrastructural investment initiatives to upgrade, construct and maintain good quality roads, expand access to electricity, and facilitate trade, communication, and social services.
“We recently showcased World Bank investment in the health sector to support my government’s health delivery program, and other similar investments manifest the interest and trust international bodies continue to demonstrate. Indeed against this background, I am sincerely thankful to our partners for their confidence and support which we value immensely.”