Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – During the National Assembly’s debate on the President’s State of the Nation Address (SONA), the Member of the National Assembly (NAM) for Kiang West, Honourable Lamin Ceesay, raised concerns over the government’s handling of corruption, employment, social services, and economic development.
Ceesay criticised the delay in operationalising the Anti-Corruption Commission, which was approved in December 2025, noting that nearly four months later it remains non-functional. According to him, the situation raises questions about the government’s commitment to fighting corruption.
“How serious can you be if that commission is still not operational? Because there is no political will,” he said.
The Kiang West lawmaker also cited what he described as ongoing mismanagement at the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), where reports suggest that COVID-19 response goods worth about D100 million were never delivered.
“The executive director is still in office, and the president has done nothing. This shows a lack of seriousness in fighting corruption,” Ceesay added.
On employment, Ceesay highlighted the growing gap between the number of graduates and the availability of jobs. He noted that each graduating batch from Gambia College produces about 3,000 graduates, yet only around 700 are reportedly absorbed into employment.
“Each batch from the Gambia College produces no less than 3,000 graduates. Today, only 700 are being absorbed. Where are the rest going?” he asked.
However, the Member for Gimara pushed back against the criticism, arguing that no country in Africa is able to absorb all graduates into government employment.
He emphasized that education should not be viewed solely as a pathway to public sector jobs but also as a means of empowering individuals to become innovative, self-reliant, and capable of creating their own opportunities.
“Some of these comments, I think, are just playing to the gallery to make the government look like they are not doing anything,” he said.
Ceesay also questioned the government’s approach to infrastructure development, electricity, security, and agriculture. He argued that public infrastructure projects must be directly linked to economic activities that benefit citizens.
He further criticized the cancellation of agricultural input subsidies and the failure to deliver tractors previously promised to farmers.
Concluding his remarks, the Kiang West NAM urged the government to prioritize the welfare of ordinary Gambians, particularly those in rural communities.
“This country needs better. The rural poor must have sustainable and affordable livelihoods,” he said.
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