By: Kemo Kanyi
Marie Sock, who expressed her desire to run for President in 2021, has urged Gambians to demand their needs from President Adama Barrow rather than according him applauses for using state resources to facilitate project implementation.
Madam Sock said Mr. Barrow is obligated to serve the Gambian population by virtue of his position.
In a telephone interview with The Voice from his current base in California on Monday, the former presidential aspirant contended that the president has now normalized the use of the constitutionally-mandated tour as a vehicle to look for votes.
She argued that the President should, by now, have a data on citizens’ needs for sustainable development and prosperity.
Sock opined that the ongoing presidential tour is a political campaign as people only heap praises on the president for accomplishing one project or the other.
‘’Yes, this [project implementation] is his obligation to his people. That’s part of his agenda prior to going into office. It is good to applaud our leaders but we need to ask ourselves after his eight years as President, has he done enough or do we deserve better? Why is he coming with projects during the tour? Is there an agenda of trying to seek third term or is he trying to buy voters’ loyalty?”she stressed.
The one-time presidential aspirant further argued that the president has a duty to make sure all sectors work effectively for a significant change during his tenure, arguing that the fleet of vehicles, fuel, monies being dished out and proposed projects all belong to Gambians.
‘’Let’s keep in mind that it is Gambia’s money that he is using to do all what he does,’’ she stated.
‘’Rural areas need water, electricity, improved medical care and basic needs for their children’s education. This is lacking in many communities in the provinces. Let’s tell him we need this and that because it is expected of him. When shall we crave for better life? Why are we settling for mediocrity?Why are we applauding him for something he is supposed to do?” stated Sock.
