Essa Mbye Faal, leader of the APP-Sobeyaa political party, has launched a scathing attack on President Adama Barrow’s administration, accusing it of widespread corruption and mismanagement. Speaking to supporters at an undisclosed location, Faal likened the government to “Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves,” a metaphor drawn from the famous Middle Eastern folktale used to describe greed and corruption.
Faal alleged that the government has entered into exploitative contracts that disadvantage Gambians, particularly concerning the country’s river and fishing resources.
“The government signed a contract that is making Gambians suffer and unable to get fish. Just recently, I watched a video showing Chinese fishermen chasing Gambian fishermen in our own river,” Faal said.
He vowed that a government led by him would immediately terminate such agreements, emphasizing that The Gambia’s resources must serve its citizens rather than foreign interests.
“The day we form a government, that will be the last day for those kinds of Chinese contracts in The Gambia,” he declared.
Faal accused the Barrow administration of shielding corrupt officials, asserting that graft under the current government has reached unprecedented levels.
“We used to hear that past governments stole thousands or millions, but now we are hearing billions. That is why I call them Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves,” he said.
He urged Gambians to vote out the current government in the upcoming December 5th, 2026, elections and support the APP-Sobeyaa party, which he said would prioritize good governance, anti-corruption efforts, and youth empowerment.
Faal also criticized the administration’s handling of the health sector, noting that many qualified nurses and doctors remain unemployed due to what he described as financial mismanagement. He cited findings from the Auditor General’s reports and claimed the government dismissed the Auditor General for exposing corruption.
In conclusion, Faal called on citizens, especially young people, to “open their eyes” and demand accountable leadership.
“Let’s remove Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves from government and build a Sobeyaa government that will truly work for the people,” he urged.
