The leader of the Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC), Hon. Mamma Kandeh, has called on the Gambia Immigration Department (GID) to explain the procedures used in issuing national identity cards to Gambians in countries such as Mauritania, Gabon, and Guinea-Bissau.
Speaking during a recent political gathering, Kandeh questioned what he described as inconsistencies in the ID card issuance process, alleging that while many Gambians struggle to obtain their documents at home, foreign-based appear to have easier access abroad.
“The Gambia Immigration Department must explain the methods used to issue ID cards to those Gambians in Mauritania, Gabon, and Guinea-Bissau. This is mind-boggling,” Kandeh said. “They have spent almost eight or nine months without being able to issue driving licences. Imagine a whole country whose police cannot issue a licence. Many Gambians are struggling to get ID cards, but it seems much easier in other countries. Why is that?” he questioned.
Kandeh expressed concern that the process could have political implications, warning that the integrity of national documents must be safeguarded. “We want Gambians to decide for themselves who should lead them. We already have a leadership crisis, and part of it stems from our own failures,” he said, adding that collective effort is needed to protect the nation’s democratic systems.
The GDC leader further accused the Immigration Department of failing to be transparent in the registration process, claiming that thousands of identity cards are being issued without proper oversight. “They should tell Gambians why they are issuing 8,000 identity cards to these youths,” he stated.
Kandeh also called for broader political dialogue on the issue, suggesting that other parties should join efforts to scrutinise the registration system. “We will create a larger forum with other political parties to address this issue. We need to understand the legislative process concerning those living in The Gambia who they are, and where they live,” he said.
He highlighted plans by the GDC to use social media as a platform to engage citizens on national issues. “Social media is important because today everything is online. We’re not there to insult anyone but to discuss our policies and programs,” Kandeh noted.
He revealed that the party is preparing to launch an online TV channel to reach more Gambians and share information about its agenda. “We have an online TV that will be installed soon, and it will be managed by dedicated people. These are some of the initiatives we have in the pipeline,” he concluded.
