By: Alieu Ceesay
National Assembly Member for Kiang West, Hon. Lamin Ceesay, has sparked sharp debate in the Gambian Parliament by questioning whether official claims of economic progress bear any resemblance to the harsh realities confronting ordinary citizens.
Speaking during deliberations on the 2026 State of the Nation Address (SoNA), Ceesay painted a grim picture of daily life for many Gambians, suggesting a widening gap between government statistics and on-the-ground realities.
“Sometimes I wonder… if some of us are living in Gambia and others are living in another Gambia,” the lawmaker declared, drawing murmurs across the chamber.
Ceesay argued that while the government frequently cites figures on GDP growth, inflation control, and improved revenue collection, these metrics mean little if they fail to translate into better lives for the people.
“The fundamental question is, how has that impacted the life and livelihood of the people? How affordable is healthcare? Education? Social services?” he asked pointedly.
Using real-life examples, Ceesay highlighted severe shortages in the health sector. He recounted instances where even basic medical supplies, such as routine injections, were unavailable locally and had to be sourced from abroad. He expressed deep concern for vulnerable rural populations.
“What happens to the poor farmer in rural Kiang or Jarra who cannot access these services?” Ceesay questioned, underscoring the disconnect between urban policy discussions and rural hardship.
The Kiang West representative also highlighted the persistent problem of youth unemployment. He cited the case of a university graduate who applied for a simple job in a hotel but was unsuccessful, describing it as a story repeated: “across the length and breadth of this country.”
Many young Gambians, he said, are becoming increasingly frustrated and disillusioned as their qualifications fail to open doors to meaningful employment.
Ceesay reserved strong criticism for the government’s handling of the Anti-Corruption Commission, which Parliament approved in December 2025. Four months on, he noted, the body is yet to become operational, raising questions about the administration’s commitment to fighting graft.
“Four months after approval, the Anti-Corruption Commission is still not functional,” he stated, signalling what he described as a lack of political will.
On infrastructure development, Ceesay cautioned that roads and public works must go beyond mere construction and actually connect to economic opportunities for citizens.
“If you construct roads, they should link to economic activities,” he emphasised.
The lawmaker further challenged the government’s narrow definition of national security, arguing that true security must encompass more than the absence of conflict.
“How many people are going to bed hungry? How many can afford healthcare? Is that security?” he asked.
Ceesay concluded his intervention by calling on the government to take Gambians’ everyday struggles more seriously.
“This country needs better. The time will tell,” he said.
The debate on President Adama Barrow’s 2026 State of the Nation Address continues in the National Assembly, with lawmakers scrutinising the government’s performance in key areas including the economy, healthcare, education, youth employment, and anti-corruption efforts.
Hon. Lamin Ceesay’s intervention has added a strong voice to growing calls for policies that deliver tangible improvements in the lives of ordinary Gambians rather than relying solely on macroeconomic indicators.
