Dr. Ceesay dismisses Essa Faal’s claims, says he has no policy alternatives

Dr. Ismaila Ceesay, Minister of Information and leader of the Citizens’ Alliance, has responded to recent criticisms from Essa Faal, stating that Faal has not presented any policy alternatives to the current initiatives of President Adama Barrow’s administration.

Essa Faal, leader of the Sobeya Movement, had accused the NPP-led government of financial mismanagement, leaving Gambians in worsening poverty. He also criticized the government’s decision to purchase 89 SUVs for delegates attending the 15th OIC Summit in Banjul, describing it as an example of misplaced priorities.

Speaking on QTV on Monday, Dr. Ceesay rejected Faal’s accusations, characterizing them as baseless political rhetoric. “Well, I am not surprised. One thing that is certain in Gambian politics is that the so-called opposition does not have an alternative to what is existing now. The president has embarked on what we call explosive development, total development in every sector. Every public policy as we speak today tends to be moving in the right direction,” he stated.

Dr. Ceesay also accused opposition figures, including Faal, of failing to provide constructive criticism or viable policy proposals. “When the opposition has nothing to come after the government policy-wise, all they do is to engage in politics, saying things that don’t make sense. But Gambians are aware. Gambians are not sleeping. I don’t know what he [Essa Faal] is talking about. For me, he has no policy alternative to what is existing, so obviously, he will embark on such petty politics,” he added.

Dr. Ismaila Ceesay continues to serve as the Minister of Information and leader of the Citizens’ Alliance, defending the government’s policies and initiatives as part of its development agenda.