GDC LEADER MAMA KANDEH APOLOGISES AND CLARIFIES REMARKS ON ELECTRICITY PROTESTS

Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC) Party Leader Hon. Mama Kandeh has apologised to Gambians over remarks attributed to him concerning the ongoing electricity protests, while strongly clarifying that he never called on President Adama Barrow to take action against ordinary citizens or protesters.

According to a statement contained in The Point newspaper, Hon. Mama Kandeh was reported to have described the electricity protests as “planned and sabotage.”

Addressing the issue in a recorded audio, Mama Kandeh said

“I’m apologising if I said that. But I want to clarify one point, what The Point newspaper wrote, that I said Barrow should take action against ordinary citizens those are not my words. I never said that, and I will never say that.”

He explained that his message was for President Barrow to take action on the electricity crisis itself, rather than take action against citizens exercising their constitutional right to protest.

He added that his intention was to encourage the government to find lasting solutions to the electricity crisis, which has affected Gambians across the country.

I am a human being like everybody else, and I can make mistakes. If I said anything that has affected anyone, I’m sorry for saying that. It was never my intention to say so.

The GDC leader also acknowledged that the electricity crisis is affecting everyone, including himself, and said he believes President Adama Barrow does not want to see Gambians suffer.

Mama Kandeh pointed to the President’s response following the first night of candlelight protests, noting that President Barrow embarked on an emergency visit to NAWEC facilities and affected areas the following morning.

He said the President’s objective is to see this country to another in term of development especially in energy sector and improve the lives of Gambians..

He concluded by reiterating his apology to the Gambian people and asking for forgiveness, while also saying that he has forgiven those who may have criticised or misunderstood his remarks.

I repeat, I did not say Barrow should take action against the protesters. I said Barrow should take action on the electricity crisis.