By: Fatou Krubally
Momodou Cham, popularly known as Mc Cham Junior, has raised serious concerns over the state of Gambia’s public health system, claiming that even top government officials avoid local hospitals and instead seek treatment abroad.
The nominated Business and Tailoring Councilor at the Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC) made the remarks during a recent public forum, where he criticized what he described as misplaced government priorities under President Adama Barrow’s administration.
“Even those in government don’t trust our hospitals. If they or their families fall ill, they seek treatment abroad,” Cham said. “No minister would willingly go to a public hospital for care.”
He said while road construction is being heavily promoted by the government as a sign of progress, critical sectors such as health continue to suffer from underfunding, poor infrastructure, and lack of essential medical supplies.
“We should not praise the government for building roads, that’s their responsibility,” Cham added. “What we need to ask is how these roads are contracted, who the contractors are, and whether the process is transparent and fair.”
Cham argued that many of the road projects being highlighted today were initiated under former President Yahya Jammeh and that the current administration is yet to deliver meaningful improvements in key areas affecting daily life of Gambians.
He also highlighted the rising cost of living, saying the prices of basic commodities have continued to increase since Barrow took office.
“Since Barrow took office, the price of everything has gone up: cement, rice, sugar, passport fees. After nearly nine years, Barrow cannot name one thing that has become cheaper,” Cham decried.
While acknowledging the need for good roads, Cham emphasized that more attention must be given to public health, access to clean water, and essential services, which he said remain inadequate in many communities.
He also criticized Gambia Moral Congress (GMC)’s leader Mai Ahmed Fatty, accusing him and others of supporting the president for personal gain.
“They cannot create jobs for themselves or others. They only rally behind the president for their interests,” Cham stated.
He concluded by urging the government to shift its focus from showcasing
infrastructure to address the urgent needs of the Gambian people, especially in the health sector.
