By Makutu Manneh
Ousainu Darboe, leader of the United Democratic Party (UDP), sharply criticized the government of President Adama Barrow on Wednesday, accusing it of failing to address corruption and calling on Gambians to hold their leaders accountable.
Speaking at a UDP meeting in Sukuta, Darboe said that the government’s inaction on corruption is hindering the country’s progress. “President Barrow came to this same place I am standing for a meeting, and he did not talk about fighting corruption,” Darboe said.
Darboe also suggested that the president’s focus had shifted toward political campaigning rather than fulfilling promises made during his 2016 campaign. He noted that Barrow’s speeches had emphasized garnering support from political figures such as Seyfolu and Alkalolu, rather than tackling the systemic corruption that, according to Darboe, continues to undermine the nation’s development.
The UDP leader urged the government to deliver on its pledges to protect national resources, combat corruption, and uphold the rule of law. “Gambians voted for Barrow, expecting him to protect the nation’s wealth, fight corruption, and uphold the rule of law. He should show people that what they voted for is happening,” he said.
Darboe also drew comparisons to former President Yahya Jammeh’s administration, suggesting that the Barrow government has not made meaningful progress. “We came together to vote out a government that was not abiding by these principles. Yet today, this government is doing worse,” he said.
Highlighting the broader economic impact of corruption, Darboe warned that losses of even small amounts, such as $100, directly affect critical sectors, including health and agriculture. “Corruption takes a country backward. This government does not want to fight corruption,” he said.
In conclusion, Darboe urged all eligible Gambians to participate in the upcoming supplementary voter registration, emphasizing that political engagement should begin immediately. “The work should start now,” he said.