By Makutu Manneh
Essa Mbye Faal, leader of APP-Sobeyaa, has called on women to oppose the re-election of Adama Barrow in the December 5 presidential vote, warning that supporting the incumbent would amount to “disappointing your children.”
Mr. Faal made the remarks during a meeting with a women’s group, where he urged voters to demand change and hold the government accountable for what he described as worsening economic conditions and limited opportunities for young people.
He argued that Gambian youth are being marginalized, dismissing claims that they are unwilling to work. Instead, he pointed to the growing number of young people risking dangerous journeys abroad in search of better prospects.
“That alone shows they are ready to work,” Mr. Faal said. “What they lack are opportunities at home. Give them a chance here, and they will deliver.”
Addressing criticism of his confrontational tone, Mr. Faal said his anger stems from systemic failures rather than personal hardship.
“If you are not angry about the state of things in this country, then something might be wrong with you,” he said.
He cited graduate unemployment, limited career pathways for young people, and what he described as tokenistic approaches to women’s empowerment. He accused the administration of favoring select individuals instead of pursuing inclusive development.
“I am angry because graduates are jobless while football and irregular migration have become the only options left for our youth,” he said. “I am angry because women are sidelined, empowerment is just lip service, and leadership picks favorites instead of lifting Gambian women.”
Mr. Faal also drew attention to the rising cost of living, particularly housing, noting that many families struggle to survive as rents climb while wages remain stagnant. He said it was unrealistic for a worker earning D4,000 a month to sustain a household while paying rent of D8,000.
He accused the Barrow administration of lacking compassion for ordinary citizens and prioritizing its own interests over public welfare.
Concluding his remarks, Mr. Faal warned that re-electing President Barrow would deepen the country’s challenges, urging women to vote for leadership guided by competence and vision rather than personal gain.
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