One wonders why The Gambia and its people are still languishing in abject poverty, even though the country should be among the most ideal places to live economically and financially.
Six decades of self-rule, yet our governments have continued to rely on loans and grants, many of which are not properly channelled towards the country’s needs.

The election is now around the corner, and our politicians are busy traversing the country, from big towns to villages, begging for your votes. Most of them have neither set foot in these communities nor visited them since the last election. This shows that they do not care about your plight. Many of them are hustlers who should not be entertained.

Politics goes beyond empty promises. Promises must be backed by action. Until Gambians start holding those they elect into office accountable through serious penalties, the hustlers among them will not stop playing their gamble cards.

For instance, we have seen some of the fiercest opposition politicians make a U-turn and eat their own words by joining the ruling party just as an election approaches. This is pure deception, which must be met with decisive action from Gambian voters.

Although I am not against politicians joining the ruling party, I question the timing of their decisions. Many of these politicians are hustlers whose words do not reflect their true intentions. For instance, if the ruling party is re-elected and these politicians are denied positions or other benefits, they may return to the opposition and resume their endless criticism.

Therefore, Gambians, especially young people, must start taking charge of their destiny rather than surrendering it to deceptive politicians. First and foremost, Gambians must refuse to be drawn into politicians’ divisive games in the name of party politics.

As long as those we elect into office are not penalised by being shown the exit door for breaking their promises, we will continue to live in abject poverty.

Voters must start questioning what these politicians have to offer to improve their living conditions. They must ask what alternatives these politicians propose for the cost of living, healthcare, security, agriculture, education, trade, and other key sectors.

Once voters start voting politicians out of office, those seeking public office will have greater reason to be honest in their promises to the public.

Vote wisely, brothers and sisters.

By Adama Makasuba