The economy is now growing, and what we want to see next is the start of decentralization efforts for the benefit of the people. These changes will t… - Fatoumata Tambajang

This process will take time, and patience and tolerance are essential given the difficult circumstances we started from. The forward path has also begun to take shape. For instance, the Ministry of Finance has sustained partnerships with the international donor community for budget support and economic assessment. Currently, we are seeing some economic growth tied to a reform agenda. Critics often claim that the government blames our 'inherited bankrupt economy' and Jammeh for underperformance. However, Jammeh has only been out of office for nearly two years, and it’s important to understand the context. When we took office, we faced a severe brain drain, as many of our skilled professionals had left due to political persecution or economic hardship. This created a capacity deficit, which is a major factor in governance, especially democratic governance, where engaging all stakeholders is critical yet challenging. I don’t shy away from acknowledging the government’s difficulties and challenges—I am part of them and remain within the coalition government. However, it's crucial to consider these underlying issues when assessing the successes and challenges of our administration."

Constitutionally, you can oversee a position, and that’s why it’s important for people to understand their constitution, as it is the foundation that governs the country. You can assume oversight in cases such as when someone passes away in office, and an eligible person can step in. But when it comes to constitutional amendments, let’s be clear: am I the one benefiting from the changes? If the constitution hadn’t been amended, would Honourable Ousainu Darboe be vice president? Would we have had competent lawyers like Sourahata Janneh and others on the commission? We need to look beyond individual interests and focus on what’s best for the country.

I have never been a member of the UDP. Initially, I supported them because of their united front. As Ousainu Darboe mentioned at the UDP congress in 1996, they formed a coalition, and I supported the national front. The reason I was often seen with UDP was due to the crises surrounding them, but I visited and collaborated with all parties. I consulted with many, including the female candidate. My presence with UDP did not make me a member. Early on, I did help prepare the UDP manifesto with the late Sidia Sagnia, but I did so as a national leader dedicated to advancing the political process. Nowhere will you find a membership card showing I belong to the UDP. I have the constitutional right to join any party, but I believe we should focus not on political ambition but on the country's needs. With my experience and abilities from my work with the UN, it was meaningful for me to support the United Front.