APP-Sobeyaa Leader Faal Promises Basic Services for Mamuda, Urges Voters to Reject Cash Handouts

By Makutu Manneh

Essa Mbye Faal, leader of APP-Sobeyaa, has pledged to improve access to roads, electricity, clean water, health facilities, and schools in Mamuda if elected president, while urging residents to reject attempts to influence their votes with cash.

Speaking to a women’s group in Mamuda, Faal said the community’s prospects for development would depend in part on the choices voters make in the December 5 presidential election. He appealed for their support, arguing that his administration would prioritize basic services in underserved communities.

Faal also pointed to the rising cost of living as he sought to make the case for political change. He said the price of a cup of cooking oil, which he recalled costing about D7 around the time of the last election, had risen to roughly D25. He then asked the women whether they were satisfied with the country’s current economic conditions.

Turning to electoral integrity, Faal warned residents that political operatives could approach them as Election Day draws closer with offers of D200 or D500 in exchange for their support. When he asked the gathering whether they would sell their votes, the women responded in the negative.

“If you allow them to deceive you for the third time… Do not allow it,” Faal said. “December 5, vote for me to win.”

The APP-Sobeyaa leader also urged the women to scrutinize the records of all presidential candidates rather than relying on campaign promises. Candidates, he said, would inevitably pledge development during the campaign, but voters should demand evidence of what they have already accomplished.

Faal said that if President Adama Barrow visits Mamuda, residents should question him about the condition of the community’s roads and its access to water and electricity.

He said the same standard should be applied to political figures who claim responsibility for development in places such as Kanifing and Brikama, urging voters to ask what tangible improvements they have delivered while in positions of authority.

Faal’s remarks were part of his effort to frame the December election around the cost of living, access to basic services, and the records of those seeking the presidency, while encouraging voters to resist financial inducements and judge candidates on their performance.