By: Nyima Sillah
Professor Lamin Keita, a US-based Gambian political scientist has sounded the alarm bell, regarding the Gambia’s political landscape.
He asserts that the relationship between political fervor and the fundamental services provided to the electorate reveals considerable governance failures that cannot be ignored.
In a recent interview, Keita declared that since 2016, it has become increasingly clear that mere political enthusiasm fails to address the essential needs for clean water, electricity, food, and adequate housing for Gambians.
“The political excitement in The Gambia has typically manifested through grandiose speeches and impassioned debates that stir public emotions. However, these fervent expressions by our politicians consistently miss the mark when it comes to genuine governance and fulfilling the real needs of our citizens,” he stated.
Keita emphasizes that during election cycles, candidates often concentrate on lofty ideals instead of tackling urgent issues such as rampant poverty, inadequate healthcare, educational disparities, escalating crime rates, increasing living costs, and crumbling infrastructure.
“This trend has led to widespread voter disillusionment; citizens demand concrete changes in their everyday lives. The recent by-election in Kiang Masembeh starkly illustrated this discontent, resulting in a decisive victory for the opposition UDP candidate over the incumbent. Voters are searching for solutions, not diversions,” Prof. Keita asserted.
He stated that the disconnect between political rhetoric and the delivery of essential services poses a serious threat to the well-being of Gambians. This gap not only erodes public trust but also breeds skepticism toward government institutions.
“The effective provision of services in our country demands unwavering commitment and practical solutions. Our governments must prioritize the implementation of policies that yield real results instead of relying on emotive language designed to secure political support based on tribal affiliations,” he opined.
Prof.Keita pointed out that the environment of expected corruption often discourages morally principled individuals from entering the political arena, noting that throughout the Gambia’s political history, from Jammeh to Barrow, many qualified technocrats have been exploited for political gain.
“As a result, many competent individuals have been cycled in and out of the political process, reinforcing a stigma around politics that is closely tied to power struggles and conflicts that undermine each other’s potential,” he explained. “Political grandstanding does not engage the population or replace the vital services that Gambians rely on. Our government must focus on delivering these services because this is the only way to effectively fulfill its responsibilities,” he concluded.