Kebba Tumanding Sanneh, the National Assembly Member for Foni Jarrol, addressed the assembly on 12 October 2026 to challenge the government’s fiscal approach. His remarks followed a request from the Ministry of Interior for an additional budget allocation of D482 million. During the National Assembly debate on 12 October 2026, Kebba Tumanding Sanneh, National Assembly Member for Foni Jarrol, emphasized the gravity of the current economic situation. Sanneh argued that relying on debt is an ineffective path for the nation, stating, "We can never develop this country through borrowing. Look at now, this year, they cannot increase salaries because this is why they cannot increase salaries. It’s because we are paying D16 billion in debt."
He further criticized the lack of oversight, noting, "The government is not ready to fight because no one is held accountable and things remain like that," and observed, "That’s why a budget is just a plan." The lawmaker’s concerns highlight the legislative scrutiny applied to requests for supplemental funding, such as the D482 million sought by the Ministry of Interior. By questioning the necessity of this allocation, Sanneh drew attention to the broader implications of borrowing on the national balance sheet.
Debt Burden Stifles Growth
The Gambia faces significant fiscal pressure as the government services existing financial obligations. Official records indicate the country is currently paying D16 billion in debt. This annual expenditure represents a substantial portion of national resources, limiting the funds available for other government priorities and public sector investment. The Gambia is currently paying D16 billion in debt, a figure that continues to dominate discussions regarding the sustainability of public spending.
As the government considers the request from the Ministry of Interior for an additional budget allocation of D482 million, the fiscal space for such expenditures remains under intense review. The reliance on debt servicing as a primary budgetary commitment restricts the government's ability to allocate resources toward salary increases and other essential public services.
Efforts to manage the national budget have involved direct intervention from oversight bodies. The Finance and Public Accounts Committee (FPAC) successfully implemented expenditure cuts that resulted in savings of D146 million. These measures reflect a shift toward reducing non-essential spending to address the prevailing financial constraints within the national budget. The Finance and Public Accounts Committee (FPAC) made savings of D146 million through expenditure cuts, demonstrating a proactive approach to fiscal discipline.
The committee continues to review government allocations to identify further areas where costs can be contained. By scrutinizing every request for additional funding, including the D482 million sought by the Ministry of Interior, the Finance and Public Accounts Committee (FPAC) aims to ensure that national resources are directed toward the most critical needs of the country. These ongoing efforts to curb expenditure are essential to mitigating the impact of the D16 billion debt burden, providing a clearer path for future financial management and national development.