By Ramatoulie Jawo
Kebba T. Sanneh, the National Assembly member representing Foni Jarrol, has asserted that ministerial and permanent secretary appointments in The Gambia are influenced more by political affiliations than by merit or expertise.
Sanneh expressed concern over the selection process, emphasizing the need for qualified individuals to hold key positions for the nation’s progress. He criticized the prevailing practice of appointing individuals based on political allegiance rather than their competence, arguing that this approach sidelines capable individuals who may be perceived as political opponents.
“We need serious people to occupy our positions to move this country forward; it should not be about political compensation, and this is what is happening. All the competent people will be moved out or sidelined from their positions because they believe they are opponents. Is it that the opposition did not have the right to work for this country?” he asked.
“This country has no control; if you say it, they will not be happy with you, but there is no control of the economy, no control of work places,” he said.
Honorable Sanneh delivered these statements during the 2024 budget speech debate at the National Assembly on Monday, December 11, 2023.
