A new political movement, the Economic Freedom Fighters - The Gambia, led by Prince Ebrima Sanyang, is poised to enter the presidential race scheduled for December 5. The movement held its launch event at Kairaba Hotel on Saturday afternoon. Prince Ebrima Sanyang, identified as a Brikama-born businessman, spearheads the new political entity. The Economic Freedom Fighters - The Gambia has adopted its name from the party of South African politician Julius Malema.
Economic Platform and Promises
The Economic Freedom Fighters - The Gambia (EFF-Gambia) has unveiled a six-point programme focusing on reducing the cost of living, creating jobs, improving education and healthcare, supporting vulnerable families, modernising infrastructure, and strengthening national security. The movement proposes establishing "Freedom Stores," described as "a national buffer stock company," to reduce prices of basic foods and commodities. Their proposals also include reviving village cooperative unions, revamping the Gambia Produce Marketing Board, and establishing a national fishing company equipped with Gambian-owned vessels.
A proposed 'One Ward, One Industry' programme aims to make zero unemployment a national mission. Other employment initiatives include start-up grants for youths and women, community credit schemes, and taxi financing. EFF-Gambia promises free education and healthcare, stipends for students, and the provision of ambulances to villages. The social protection agenda proposes monthly relief packages for low-income families and a D1,500 monthly payment for every Gambian aged 60 and above.
Additional promises include a national minimum wage, improved conditions for civil servants, and affordable housing. Prince Ebrima Sanyang also proposed reviving the dream of a Gambian national airline, citing a previous attempt to contribute to a state airline and lease an aircraft parked at Banjul International Airport hangar. The movement also plans to introduce community bus services, operated in partnership with local authorities.
Prince Sanyang stated, "I do not offer perfection, promises or miracles to Gambians. I offer honest leadership, disciplined work, careful planning and accountability for what we deliver. EFF-Gambia is a peaceful, democratic, pan-African and people-centred movement committed to fighting poverty, unemployment and underdevelopment."
Governance and Security Commitments
The Economic Freedom Fighters - The Gambia (EFF-Gambia) has outlined plans to revitalise the national river transport system, establish a national railway, and construct a new international airport. Prince Ebrima Sanyang also pledged improved training and equipment for the police and fire and rescue services. An EFF-Gambia government, he stated, would ensure greater transparency in public contract awards and implement stringent anti-corruption measures. The national utilities company, Nawec, which the movement considers not fit for purpose, will be dismantled and replaced. Sanyang affirmed that EFF-Gambia would not engage in the "politics of revenge, hatred and victimisation." The movement will be guided by four core principles: people before power, service before privilege, justice for everyone, and accountability at all levels.
Launch Event and Political Landscape
The Economic Freedom Fighters - The Gambia's promises include protecting Gambians abroad and strengthening the country’s international standing. The movement's launch event at Kairaba Hotel was attended by representatives from several political entities. Among those present were delegates from the United Democratic Party, Afro-Movement, and the National Development Movement.