United Democratic Party (UDP) flagbearer hopeful Lamin N.S. Ceesay has promised to confront what he describes as “unfavorable” foreign agreements and widespread inefficiencies within government institutions if chosen to lead the party into the next presidential election.
Speaking to reporters after an interview at the UDP office in Manjai, Ceesay raised concerns about critical reports and inquiries that he says remain unaddressed by the current administration. These include findings from the Janneh Commission, the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC), and several audit reports.
“There are so many documents lying idle in government offices,” Ceesay said. “These reports were produced to guide accountability, but they are gathering dust instead of being acted upon.”
The aspirant was particularly critical of foreign deals signed under the government, alleging that some were made to benefit officials rather than ordinary Gambians. “If elected, such agreements will either be re-examined or canceled outright,” he declared.
Ceesay also took aim at the state of public healthcare, lamenting that patients are often referred to private facilities due to a lack of medical supplies in government hospitals. “It is very sad when you go to the public hospital and they refer you to the private hospital. Why can’t the government provide the necessary supplies itself?” he asked.
On the economy, Ceesay expressed frustration over what he described as The Gambia’s heavy reliance on external aid. “Every Independence Day, I feel sad. Gambia cannot pay its own bills. We have to go outside to meet basic expenses, let alone fund development projects,” he said.
Positioning himself as the candidate best placed to address these challenges, Ceesay told journalists, “We need someone who is visually inclined to be able to tackle these issues, and I believe I am the guy.”
Asked about the UDP’s internal selection process, he voiced confidence in the party’s structures, stressing that it was not controlled by one individual. “Due process will be followed. In the UDP, all members are equal,” he noted, adding that his interview had been “fair” and “transparent.”
Ceesay underscored his long-standing commitment to the UDP, reminding the press that he has been with the party since its inception in 1996, serving as a polling agent in his constituency. He also pledged to support whichever candidate emerges as the flagbearer, insisting that unity within the party is vital.
“I have never left the UDP. Whoever is selected, I am ready to work with them. This is the only party on track to salvage this country,” he said.
