The Vice Chairman of the Select Committee on Education, Hon. Bakary K. Badjie, expressed his disappointment over the President’s failure to address the much-anticipated transport allowance promised to the people by the government. Badjie highlighted the gap between reported economic growth and the reality faced by civil servants.
Hon. Badjie voiced his concerns following a recent address by the President, in which key issues affecting the daily lives of Gambians, particularly civil servants, were expected to be discussed. “I was expecting the President to shed light on the much talked about promised transport allowance the government made to the people,” Badjie stated.
The MP argued that the reported economic growth is not translating into tangible benefits for civil servants. “The economic growth that is being reported is not reflecting on the civil servants,” Badjie said. He emphasized that despite claims of economic progress, civil servants continue to struggle with low wages and inadequate support.
Badjie’s comments reflect a growing frustration among civil servants who feel left behind by the government’s policies. The promised transport allowance was seen as a critical measure to alleviate some of the financial burdens faced by these workers. However, the lack of clarity and progress on this promise has led to increased discontent.
The Vice Chairman’s critique underscores a broader concern about the disconnect between government proclamations of economic success and the everyday experiences of Gambians. Civil servants, in particular, have been vocal about their need for better compensation and support.
As the government continues to tout economic growth, the voices of those like Hon. Bakary K. Badjie serve as a reminder that such growth must be inclusive and beneficial to all segments of the population, especially those who are essential to the country’s administration and public services.