Kemo Bojang, KMC Youth Councillor
The problem with the NPP is that they never say, “We have done this and that.” Instead, their entire approach is built on deflection. “Well, we haven’t, but what have you also done?” At least now, they’re beginning to acknowledge their own failures. That’s progress in itself.
For your information, Hon. Minister, even if we haven’t invested directly in infrastructure as you claim, we have worked tirelessly with our partners and stakeholders to ensure development reaches the people. The impact of our leadership can be seen in various sectors, whether or not your government wants to admit it.
It’s interesting how you were quick to take credit for The Gambia’s back-to-back AFCON qualifications, despite the chaos that marred both tournaments under your watch. Now that the national team is struggling, you’ve conveniently distanced yourself, leaving them unsupported. This is the same selective amnesia you apply when it comes to local governance.
But if this is the game you want to play, let us also be shameless and take credit for the incredible work our park management teams are doing. Across the municipality, from Bakau to Serekunda East and now to Serekunda West, these committees are leading much-needed rehabilitation efforts, may I remind you that all parks belong to council. We recognize and appreciate their dedication in upgrading our parks and building pavilions for the community. Their success is a testament to effective local leadership, something your government cannot claim.
Hon. Minister, may I also remind you that it was your cabinet that deliberately blocked our Africell-KMC partnership, a 100 million project, which was set to transform Serekunda West Park into a 15,000-seater facility? Your government sabotaged this project, not because it lacked merit, but simply because you feared it would give Mayor Talib Bensouda an advantage in the last mayoral elections against you, which you eventually lost. What kind of government actively works against development just to score political points?
And while we’re at it, let’s talk about the KMC-Africell partnership that built the best basketball and volleyball courts in Bakau Newtown KMC-Afri Park. Again, your government did everything in its power to stop it. Yet, despite your obstacles, we pushed forward, and today, KMC has a sports facility that young athletes can be proud of.
So the question isn’t about what we have done, it’s about what your government has prevented from being done. Time and again, NPP’s strategy has been to block progress at the municipal level while failing to deliver at the national level. The people are watching, and no amount of excuses can hide the truth.