By: Binta Jaiteh
Hajie Suwaneh, Youth President of the United Democratic Party, has stressed that President Adama Barrow should learn from the recent Massembeh Ward by-election.
In an exclusive interview with The Voice, Suwaneh asserted that Gambians will no longer tolerate the politics of deception and empty promises.
“This election has made it clear that the people are ready for change. No leader will succeed in deceiving citizens again,” he emphasized.
He highlighted that despite the presence of numerous ministers, an ambassador, and high-ranking members of the NPP at the election, they suffered a significant defeat.
“This outcome should serve as a wake-up call for the entire government and the NPP. It illustrates that people are focused on collective benefit rather than individual gains. The citizens are fully aware of the government’s propaganda over the last three to four years,” he argued.
Suwaneh said the soaring prices of basic commodities led to widespread suffering in the country.
He accused the government of increasing the poverty rate through “burdensome taxes on goods”.
“They are not invested in productive sectors that would drive economic growth; instead, their energy is wasted on laying foundation stones everywhere,” he argued.
“The current situation in the country is dire. Right now, countless farmers are struggling to receive payment, and their groundnuts remain stranded at the SECCOs. These farmers depend on their earnings to support their families. The nation cannot progress if farmers continue to face such obstacles. The fallout will hit the poorest citizens, who already find it difficult to put food on the table,” he stated.
Suwaneh further condemned “the lack of security” in the country, noting that the U.S. has warned its citizens to avoid walking alone here.
“Foreign nationals are even advised to bring their own medications because our hospitals lack quality drugs. This situation reflects not only inadequate police protection but also a failure in health and food security,” he explained.
He underscored that these issues will tarnish the country’s reputation. He criticized the government’s “passive approach” to corruption and armed robbery, indicating that it signifies Barrow’s lack of commitment to address these critical threats.
“As we move toward the 2026 elections, Barrow must recognize that these elections will not be straightforward for him. His ambition for a third term will not favor him. The people are acutely aware of his poor governance and mismanagement. I strongly advise Barrow to step down peacefully to avoid a humiliating defeat in the upcoming elections,” Suwaneh asserted