Rédaction Africa Links 24 with babucarr balajo
Published on 2024-04-02 10:00:08
The functioning of the Adama Barrow administration can be likened to observing a Model United Nations, where students simulate diplomatic discussions and policy debates. This comparison is drawn due to the lack of substance and accountability in the government’s actions, turning important ministerial reports into mere theatrics with no tangible results to show for it.
In recent weeks, various ministers have paraded to the State House to report on their ministry’s progress, but these visits seem more about performative gestures than addressing real issues. Instead of meaningful discussions, ministers engage in elaborate displays that fail to address the pressing challenges faced by everyday Gambians. Failures are glossed over as successes, and serious issues are sidelined for a facade of productivity.
One striking example is Bakary Badjie, the Minister of Youth and Sports, who focused solely on stadium construction during his visit to the State House. This narrow focus on sports overlooks the broader needs of Gambian youths, who require investments in education, employment, health, and entrepreneurship. Minister Badjie’s failure to address these critical issues reflects the government’s shortcomings in prioritizing the well-being and future prospects of the youth population.
Similarly, the former Minister of Tourism, Hamat Bah, failed to acknowledge the financial irregularities and mismanagement that marred his ministry’s operations. Instead, he touted an increase in tourist visitors as his main achievement, ignoring the underlying problems that tarnished his tenure. President Barrow’s indifference to these issues speaks volumes about the lack of accountability and consequences within his administration.
The recurring theme of ministers blaming contractors for delays and failures without facing any repercussions highlights the government’s lack of commitment to achieving tangible results. Accountability and transparency are sorely lacking, with ministers engaging in superficial discussions while critical challenges remain unaddressed.
Notably absent from the ministerial visits to the State House are key sectors like agriculture and finance, which play vital roles in addressing food security and economic stability. The failure to prioritize these issues and provide meaningful solutions underscores the government’s tendency to prioritize optics over substance.
The high cost of basic commodities and the challenges faced by farmers and small-scale businesses go unaddressed, further highlighting the disconnect between the government and the everyday realities of Gambians. The focus on superficial displays of productivity rather than meaningful action underscores the lack of seriousness and commitment to addressing pressing issues.
In conclusion, the Adama Barrow administration’s approach to governance resembles a Model UN, where theatrics and role-playing take precedence over substantive discussions and tangible results. The consequences of this lack of accountability and action are real for millions of Gambians, underscoring the urgent need for a more serious and effective government response to the country’s challenges.
Read the original article on The Standard
