Sulayman Saho, the opposition UDP representative for Central Baddibu, has criticized President Barrow's ongoing focus on road construction and road foundation laying, arguing that it diverts attention from other pressing issues affecting Gambians. Saho acknowledged the importance of road infrastructure but stated it should not overshadow concerns like outstanding payments to communities from Seccos and persistent challenges for farmers regarding fertilizer access. He emphasized that while road development is key, it must not divert the president's attention from other issues affecting ordinary Gambians, who face numerous daily struggles.
Saho questioned the allocation of funds, stating, "Before spending all these millions on inaugurating roads and laying foundation stones, why not you help communities in NBR who still have their monies owed by Seccos? How about fertiliser which still remains a challenge for farmers?" He added that the Banni–Salikenni road, for instance, was funded by pump levies contributed by every Gambian citizen. Saho warned against the use of public funds for "self-perpetuation and mismanagement," cautioning farmers, youths, and women against exploitation and declaring, "nobody will use Baddibu as a bait."
Criticism of Road Projects
Sulayman Saho, the UDP representative for Central Baddibu, asserted that most road projects in the country are not constructed to adequate standards, despite being financed by taxpayers. He noted that these projects often rely on public funds, suggesting a need for greater accountability in their execution and quality. Saho further elaborated that many of these roads, which are funded by taxpayers, fail to meet the necessary engineering specifications, leading to concerns about their longevity and value for money.
Saho specifically cited the Banni–Salikenni road as an example, stating that its construction was funded through pump levies, a contribution made by every Gambian citizen. He argued that such funding mechanisms show the public's investment in these projects and necessitate higher standards and better oversight. The fact that every Gambian contributed through pump levies for the Banni–Salikenni road, according to Saho, makes the standard of construction a matter of public accountability.
Prioritizing Farmer Needs
Sulayman Saho, the UDP representative for Central Baddibu, stated that President Barrow's administration should prioritize addressing the challenges faced by farmers. Saho emphasized that the significant issue requiring presidential attention is the "plight of farmers who are wallowing in poverty." He noted that these farmers are currently lacking essential resources such as fertilizer and other agricultural inputs, even deep into the rainy season. According to Saho, this situation shows a critical need for direct support to the agricultural sector, which he suggested is being overshadowed by other development initiatives. He stressed that the real issue President Barrow needs to tackle is the dire situation of farmers who are struggling with poverty and a lack of vital agricultural inputs at a key time in the farming calendar.
Broader Implications and Warnings
Sulayman Saho called on President Barrow to provide assurances to farmers regarding ongoing dialogue with Dakar concerning the border situation. Farmers, Saho stated, fear being deprived of ancestral farmlands that Senegal claims. He emphasized the need for clarity and security for these communities, urging the president to assure farmers about the progress and implications of these discussions. The uncertainty surrounding land claims along the border poses a significant threat to the livelihoods and heritage of these farming communities.
Saho further characterized the administration's current tour as enabling "self-perpetuation and mismanagement of public funds." He suggested that the tour's activities divert resources and attention from critical issues such as farmer support and community compensation. The UDP representative’s statements indicate a broader concern about governance and resource allocation in the country, suggesting that the tour is being used to bolster political standing rather than genuinely addressing the core problems faced by citizens.