“She Deserves Justice”: Gambian Family Demands Answers After Woman Dies Following Live-Wire Incident
By: Pa Salieu
My cousin died three days ago, and according to her brother, this is what happened.
An exposed live wire connected to NAWEC was running through a residential area where children and families live. My cousin touched it and suffered devastating burns.
While she was at the hospital in Banjul, she was enduring severe pain. When she complained about her pain and treatment, she was once termed rude.
NAWEC reportedly said they would come to the hospital, while Jim and his family were paying for the hospital bills as much as they could.
She required surgery and according to her brother, the electricity went off during the operation. A hospital treating critically injured people reportedly had no functioning backup electricity.
This electricity crisis did not begin today. Gambians have endured years of plans, funding and promises, yet people are still experiencing blackouts lasting up to 48 hours. We have every right to ask where the progress is.
My cousin’s death was not merely an unfortunate accident. It appears to have been unnecessary and preventable. Our family deserves a full investigation, truthful answers and accountability from NAWEC, the hospital and the relevant authorities.
How many Gambian lives must be lost before electricity, healthcare and public safety are treated with the seriousness they deserve?
How many young Gambians must die at sea because they see no care or hope for their future?
The cries across The Gambia are heartbreaking. NAWEC, after years of the same failures, there are no excuses. Explanations now feel like attempts to save face and insults to the people’s intelligence.
Asking the government to “do better” is no longer enough we need accountability, action and reform.
May Allah ease the suffering of everyone failed by our healthcare system and essential services, and bring lasting change.
S A H A R A may Allah grant sunj raka peace ak AJJANAH. I know how much it burns you couldn’t be there while the hospital tortured your sister. I know your heart burns thinking about how much pain all those burns caused her.
And I know she will get justice. In every shape or form. We will never forget.
Written with a tired heart.
