Independent Aspirant Alieu Sowe Defends Presidential Readiness Despite Expired ID, Missing Deposit

By Makutu Manneh

Independent presidential aspirant Alieu Sowe has defended his readiness to lead The Gambia after facing questions over his arrival at the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) for nomination with an expired national identity card, no passport, and without the required D1 million deposit.

Speaking to journalists after submitting his nomination papers, Sowe acknowledged shortcomings in his documentation but insisted that leadership should be measured by integrity and commitment to public service rather than personal possessions.

Asked whether the missing requirements raised questions about his preparedness for the presidency, Sowe attributed his expired ID card to a nationwide shortage of identity cards at the time. While accepting some responsibility, he maintained that the circumstances were beyond his control.

He argued that effective leadership depends on honesty, dignity, and a genuine commitment to improving citizens’ lives.

Outlining his vision, Sowe pledged to build a peaceful, modern, inclusive, and development-oriented Gambia where government serves the people and citizens enjoy dignity, security, and prosperity.

He said his team had examined the achievements and shortcomings of successive governments while drawing lessons from the opposition, civil society and ordinary Gambians.

According to Sowe, the country’s persistent challenges motivated his decision to enter politics, expressing confidence that meaningful development could be achieved through practical solutions and determined leadership.

He argued that transforming The Gambia into a developed nation was neither impossible nor overly complicated, emphasizing that the country possesses the potential to achieve standards of living comparable to those in developed countries.

Sowe further maintained that Gambians deserve the same opportunities, security, and quality of life enjoyed by citizens elsewhere, pledging that his administration would prioritize addressing the country’s longstanding challenges.

On national security, the independent aspirant made an ambitious pledge to dismantle criminal organizations within his first 30 days in office.

He said his administration would create an environment where Gambians could move freely throughout the country without fear of robbery or other criminal activities.

Sowe expressed confidence that, within his first month in office, citizens would be able to carry valuable belongings, including mobile phones, in public without fear of being targeted by criminals.

He maintained that ensuring public safety and restoring citizens’ sense of security would be among his administration’s immediate priorities.