NPP’s Biggest Challenge Is Not The Opposition But Rather The Sheer Lack Of Competence And Quality Within Its Ranks- Kemo Bojang

Kemo Bojang, KMC Youth Councillor

By Kemo Bojang

I have always said—and will continue to say—that the biggest challenge facing the National People’s Party (NPP) is not the opposition parties but rather the sheer lack of competence and quality within its ranks. President Barrow once again validated this assertion by stating that the only reason he will run for another term is the fear that his party will die without him. This remark demonstrates that he believes there are no capable individuals within his party who can fill his shoes.

Gambia is currently grappling with an unprecedented rise in crime, ranging from petty thefts to violent robberies that terrorize communities. People no longer feel safe in their homes or workplaces. This alarming trend is compounded by a skyrocketing unemployment rate, especially among the youth, who are left with little hope or opportunity for a better future. The dearth of job prospects has driven many into drug use and trafficking, with narcotics now devastating lives and destabilizing communities.

Extreme living conditions have become the norm for many families as the cost of living spirals out of control. Basic necessities—such as food, healthcare, and housing—are increasingly beyond the reach of ordinary citizens. Yet the government remains largely oblivious, focusing more on political expediency than on improving the lives of Gambians.

Instead of addressing these pressing issues, the NPP government has been mired in corruption and incompetence. In 2023, even after allegedly rigging their way to victory in the 2021 presidential election, the NPP was dissatisfied with the over ten qualified party members who applied to run for chairman of the Brikama Area Council. They went out of their way to select Seedy Ceesay—a known member of PDOIS—to contest under their ticket, and he lost.

Similarly, in the KMC, when more than fifteen individuals applied for the mayoral position, they forced a sitting minister to run, only to lose once again. In the Kuntaur Area Council, they even convinced the GDC chairman to decamp and contest under their ticket. Time and again, we have seen how the President rewards individuals who switch allegiance to his party at the expense of loyal members.

It is deeply disappointing that President Barrow has failed to present any progressive ideas or concrete reforms as justification for seeking re-election. Despite having extended his stay in office in 2019 under the guise of reforming the country, he now appears solely intent on maintaining power rather than uplifting the Gambian people.

Furthermore, President Barrow has shown that he cannot be trusted. He once insisted that a two-term limit should be enshrined in our constitution—a conviction he later abandoned. We also recall how he commended President Sall for stepping down and not vying for office again.

In summary, President Barrow’s decision to seek another term is not driven by a commitment to national development or progressive policies but by a desperate desire to cling to power. His actions lay bare his true priorities, and they are not in the best interest of the Gambian people.