Independent presidential aspirant Retired Army Major Alieu Sowe has promised to address criminal activities across The Gambia within 30 days if elected president in the December 5 election.

Sowe, who is contesting under the Movement of Gambian Bekeli, said his military experience had equipped him with the professional knowledge to address the country’s security challenges.

Speaking shortly after filing his nomination papers with the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), he pledged to dismantle criminal networks and create an environment where Gambians could move around with their valuables without fear of theft or other criminal activities.

“Within 30 days, every Gambian can hold his iPhone or any valuable item around the country without any criminal, because we will get rid of all criminals’ organization, and Gambians will be free to enjoy the peace,” he said.

He argued that security, health and agriculture would be among his administration’s top priorities, describing security as an area he believed he could address through his professional experience in the military.

Asked how he intended to tackle the security challenges, Sowe said he understood the country’s security situation and had the experience to respond to it.

“These are security matters. I am somebody who was an army officer. I know the security situation in The Gambia and I can address it with my professionalism,” he said.

Sowe said his decision to enter politics was informed by his observations of successive governments, opposition parties, civil society organisations and the everyday experiences of ordinary Gambians.

He said his ambition was to build a peaceful, modern, inclusive and development-oriented country where government works for citizens and people live with dignity, security and peace.

The independent candidate also said he was entering the presidential race to serve Gambians rather than engage in political confrontation.

“I want to serve Gambians, but I’m not here to fight Gambians,” he said.

He further argued that national development did not require extraordinary intervention but depended on citizens taking responsibility for the country’s progress.

Sowe said his proposed administration would seek to address the challenges facing the country as soon as possible if given the mandate.

By Adama Makasuba