Bakary K. Badjie, National Assembly Member for Foni Berefet, has declared his candidacy for the 2026 Gambian presidential election, citing economic hardship, insecurity, and a failing healthcare system as key issues he aims to address.

Speaking on the country’s independence day on Tuesday (18 Feb.), Mr. Badjie lamented thatThe Gambia has failed to achieve the vision of its founding fathers. He called for radical leadership to lift the country out of poverty and underdevelopment.

“Our independence, which we have been celebrating for the past 60 years, would be meaningless unless it is linked to the liberation of our people from the clutches of poverty, the scourge of death and insecurity, and the chains of underdevelopment and economic suffering,” he said.

Mr Badjie said inflation has reached critical levels, driving up the cost of living and making life unbearable for ordinary Gambians. He blamed a lack of price control and ineffective economic policies for the economic strain.

“The prices of basic commodities in the markets and shops have surged, making life extremely difficult for the farmer, the fisherman, and the everyday Gambian,” he noted.

He pledged to introduce robust economic policies to stabilize the national currency, the Dalasi, curb inflation, and support small and medium enterprises.

Rising crime and insecurity were also focal points in Mr. Badjie’s address. He highlighted the growing number of armed robberies, killings, and violent crimes, calling for greater empowerment of Gambian security forces.

“Our security personnel are being belittled, degraded, and treated without the honour and respect they rightfully deserve,” he said, vowing to restore their dignity and mandate.

He also criticised the presence of foreign military forces in The Gambia, arguing that they undermine the morale of local security personnel.

“What is more risky than having foreign soldiers in our State House, in the very heart of our sovereignty?” he questioned.

Mr. Badjie expressed concerns over the country’s education system, describing it as outdated and a remnant of colonial rule.

 He called for reforms to emphasize critical thinking, innovation, and vocational training to empower Gambian youth with practical skills.

“Our sons and daughters are taught to memorize, not to think; to follow, not to innovate,” he said, adding that the country needs more job creators rather than job seekers.

In the healthcare sector, he painted a grim picture of the situation in hospitals, where he claimed patients are often left lying on the floor due to a lack of beds and basic medical supplies.

“This is absolutely unacceptable, after 60 years of independence!” he declared, promising major investments in healthcare infrastructure and services.

Agriculture, which remains a key sector for the Gambian economy, was another major focus of Mr. Badjie’s speech.

He criticized the continued dependence on food imports and called for increased investment in modern farming techniques.

“We must revolutionize agriculture through innovation and mechanization. We will empower our farmers with modern tools, training, and facilities,” he pledged.

Mr. Badjie’s announcement marks a significant step in The Gambia’s political landscape, with his campaign likely to challenge the current administration.

While acknowledging the risks of his decision, he remained resolute. “Some may say we are too young, while others may say this is too ambitious and risky. But remember, it is ambition and risk that run the world,” he said.

By Adama Makasuba