Opposition politician Ebrima Tabora Manneh has accused the country’s political elite of failing to understand the daily struggles facing ordinary Gambians. Speaking at a rally in Tujereng, the People’s Alliance Party (PAP) leader said citizens continue to grapple with rising hardship while many elected officials live comfortably.
Manneh argued that those in power often enjoy high salaries, private healthcare and access to private schools for their children. He said this reality is far removed from life for the majority, who are trying to make ends meet on small wages.
“Politicians don’t know what people are going through,” he told supporters. “Some of them are well aware of the problems in this country, but they do not face those problems themselves.”
He urged Gambians to “vote wisely” in the next election and support leaders who are committed to solving the country’s challenges. According to Manneh, PAP’s focus is on practical solutions and unity, which he believes are essential for development.
“We want to unite people because that is the only way we can achieve quick progress,” he said.
Manneh pointed to the cost of education and healthcare as examples of the widening gap between public officials and the wider population. He said government leaders are sending their children to expensive early childhood centres while many families struggle to access quality schooling and basic medical services.
He added that poverty, insecurity and weaknesses in the education system are getting worse, warning that the country “is not heading in the right direction.”
Manneh called on supporters to back PAP, promising that the party would bring change and help improve living conditions for all Gambians.
