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Written by: Michaella Faith Wright
The National Assembly Member (NAM) for Banjul North, Hon. Modou Lamin B. Bah, has called on lawmakers to strengthen parliamentary oversight and ensure government policies and budgets translate into tangible improvements in the lives of Gambians, particularly in health, education, agriculture, infrastructure, gender equality, the economy, and security.
Speaking during the commemoration of the International Day of Parliamentarism on Tuesday, held under the theme, “Parliament for the People: Delivering on Health, Education, Agriculture, Infrastructure, Gender, Economy & Security,” Bah said Parliament exists to serve citizens by transforming their hopes and aspirations into meaningful action.
“We are elected for one reason: to translate the hopes, struggles, and aspirations of citizens into laws, budgets, and oversight in a manner that touches the daily life of every person in the republic,” he said.
The Banjul North lawmaker stressed the need for stronger oversight to ensure public resources allocated to sectors such as health and education reach their intended beneficiaries. Emphasising accountability in healthcare spending, he said, “Health budgets do not end on paper. Our oversight must track every dalasi to the clinic level.”
On infrastructure, Bah urged Parliament to closely monitor the implementation of development projects and ensure taxpayers receive value for money.
“Delivery must match the promise. No more abandoned roads. Taxpayers deserve value for every dalasi,” he stated.
Bah also called for greater support for women, expanded employment opportunities for young people, and sustained reforms within the security sector. He concluded with a pledge to “legislate with Gambia in mind” while serving the people of Banjul North with courage and humility.
