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dbaldeh
USA
934 Posts |
 Posted - 24 Feb 2007 : 22:39:50
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quote:
Originally posted by shaka
Bronx if you try attempting a postmortem of the NADD MOU at this point in time, i swear am going to frigging scream. Are you speaking for yourself when you said you saw the flaws of the MOU yet chose to sit on the truth while crossing your fingers in anticipation of a miracle? This is bloody criminal!! Is it that you chickened out for fear of persecution? If that is your excuse then why should you then judge the brave politician on the ground who lay their lives for the cause by tackling the devil himself right in his backyard. Are they immune to persecution? If this was the general attitude of oppsition sympatisers then we deserved everything damn thing that befall us. You lot must have thought this whole unification attempt of the opposition is a wait-and-see game where you can just thrust all the burden and responsibility of unification on the poor backs of politicians and quick to spit on them when they went for their own selfish agenda. What happened to the support and guidiance these poor and fallible human beings needed from you while they were at their wits end. To turn around now and tell us you knew all along where the problem lay but for whatever reason choose not to share it, is absolutely despicable. If this is not a case of "i knew it" then only hell knows what it is. May be we need to stop point fingers at the oppossition and start examining ourselves, our actions or to put it better our inactions for the failure of the opposition. Are we ever going to get anywhere with this wait-and-see attitude and at the end of it, jump in with "i knew it". Don't even start about Ebou Jallow, for if you expect any different from him then you must be the biggest fool.
Shaka, am in complete agreement with you. Many of these so called born again critics were busy discrediting anything good about the MOU in favor of their hidden political agendas. No one had ever said the MOU was a perfect document. All those who signed it had the opportunity to amend anything on that but as you said they choose to play the wait and see game.
It was obvious that many of them were there one foot in and another out. It is where the dishonesty and betrayal come from. I absolutely have no respect for those people who criticise STGDP and the NADD MOU WITHOUT offering any alternative to what was on the table.
STGDP and its founding members remained to be the most practical and result oriented citizens we had during the last election circle. These people came up with what was the best possible idea of removing a dictatorial government from power which is ready to do anything to stay in power. So far in the history of the Government I have not seen or withness such a brilliant move by these group of individuals to remedy the political situation in the Gambia. They played their part and Gambians should have joined them to find an alternative.
I wanted to give my collegue Bronx some credit as he is on record as a rare one of those who were objective in their critizism of the MOU and or the coalition. However, there were others who could not see anything beyond a Darboe President. While he had the greatest opportunity to lead, many of his supporters instead of helping him find a solution they were hell bend on tearing apart the coalition with a false hope of making their life time dream a reality. They are blinded by power greed and could not be objective.
So all the excuses and finger pointing to the MOU is just being used as a last resort to hold on to their disasterous pull out. This wait and see game with an agenda to have it your way or the highway is shameful and regretable by many of them. Now they don't have a choice but say "Hamon Na ko" (I knew it)"Hamun won daaraa, Tay Dunch Koo Musaa hamm" (they did not know anything and would never know until it is too late)
We need people who can criticise and offer alternatives. If you think my way is not right come up with an alternative so we can reach a common destiny... |
Baldeh,
"Be the change you want to see in the world" Ghandi
Visit http://www.gainako.com for your daily news and politics |
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Nyarikangbanna
United Kingdom
1382 Posts |
Posted - 25 Feb 2007 : 12:20:15
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quote:
The inclusiveness I mentioned above is not about tribal, gender or origin. What I was referring to is the governing agenda. When a serious and well founded political party which is supposedly the largest wants to lead the rest, they must look into other party's agendas in governing and share their concerns and interest.........
If you disagree with this assertion please post on the Bantaba your party's governing platform and programs that addresses issues like Term Limit, Limited Presidential powers, a clear agenda to address our socioeconomic and educational disasters. Honor this request and we can continue the debate on party lead coalition...
I accept the first paragraph but with regards to Presidential term limit, the UDP have made it clear since 1996 and even incorporated it into their party constitution, that a future UDP or UDP-lead government will cap the tenure for the presidency to two terms. This position remains the same as it is line with universal democratic norms.
As for your request,please read below UDP's 2006 Election Manifesto. Thanks
UDP 2006 Party Manifesto
This note contains the manifesto of the United Democratic Party (UDP) which it intends to present as a policy guideline in the forth-coming Presidential/Parliamentary elections.
It is a statement of intentions in respect of socio-economic development as well as institutional and constitutional arrangements it proposes to put in place during its terms of office in the second Republic. The party intends to be identified with the pronouncements in this manifesto the overall aim of which is “The Transformation of the Gambia into a heaven of peace and prosperity.”
In this regard, major policy areas have been identified across the board and are carefully examined to reflect their relevance to the realization of the above objectives. The range from strengthening democracy and sound governance, security matters, economic policies in which free market economy, trade liberalization and monetary and fiscal development to provide an enabling environment for a balanced and sustainable economic growth and development. A pragmatic foreign policy has also been highlighted.
Reforms in the civil service have been mentioned and special emphasis has been placed in National Unity, Social Justice, Poverty Alleviation, economic management, and empowerment of women and good governance. This is consistent with the UDP Government’s thematic areas will usher in national unity, social justice and more importantly fundamental and positive changes in attitudes. Mention has also been made of drugs abuse and program envisaged for the rehabilitation of drug addicts.
The transformation of the Gambia into a heaven of peace and prosperity through the realization of our economic objectives for a balanced and sustainable economic growth and for self-reliance is the hallmark of our national policy. In our view this will guarantee Poverty Alleviation through an uplifting in our agricultural productivity, industrialization of the economy and the development of the country. Consequently the UDP is determined to mobilize all resources both internal and external for the fullest development of the country. We have opted for a free market economy as point of departure in our economic strategy. We are opted for a free market economy as point of departure in our economic strategy. We are determined that with the co-operation of our development partners we achieve this goal of improving the well being of the Gambian people. The potential is available and in place and we are not wanting in the will and determination to forge ahead.
a.) INTRODUCTION
We the people of the Gambia have arrived at cross roads. The transition period has come to an end and the military, contrary to initial promises, have declared their desire to perpetuate themselves in office. The choice that we have to make is clear, between a military government disguised in civilian consume and a genuine democratic civilian policies to place the Gambia among the progressive nations of the world. We will provide such a government.
Important though is the choice between policies these elections are also a choice between values. At the heart of our conviction is the belief in the freedom of the individual. We believe that for freedom to have real meaning, standards of public service must be high and widely accessible.
That the rights of the individual, like all others in a free society, are the same for all men and women irrespective or age, ethnic origin and class.
Finally for these rights and responsibilities to be exercised fully and fairly, the Government of the Gambia must work hard to promote the general well-being of the Gambian people by adequately supporting initiative, research and innovation, the improvement of skills, infrastructure and industrial development.
Guided by these values, we will make the Gambia more competitive, productive and just, more secured against crime and more conscious of the danger of environmental degradation. The government must serve the whole nation. We will provide such government.
The realities of current world order require that the government provide; a stable economic environment; that lays firm emphasis on productive investment in both the public and private sectors, education and training to develop the skills of young people and adults.
The UDP will implement these policies as vital for improvement in living standards of the people. We have confidence in our country and its people. We want to create a society to provide equal opportunities for all and promote development of the people’s potentials and the exercise of their rights. We shall therefore introduce constitutional and other changes that will give renewed vigour to our democracy.
These policies like demonstrating our practical commitment to freedom. We will strive to revive a cordial relationship with our neighbours, in particular Senegal; strengthen our participation in ECOWAS, OAU, the Commonwealth of Nations and the United Nations.
We will respect and implement the UN Charter, and the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights and all other treaties ratified by the Gambia.
It is time for change, time for fresh start a new beginning in our lives and in the life of our country. The Choice is clear. An APRC government would mean the perpetuation of economic stagnation, political isolating and a repressive social environment. The military in Africa have proved beyond doubt what they are capable of doing while in government.
They have no policies, which would mean sustained development, better health care or improved educational standards.
The UDP government will give a fresh start for the Gambia. It will mean action to rebuild confidence, fair taxation and incentives for enterprise and support for essential services. It will mean greater freedom, security and Opportunity.
STRENGTHENING DEMOCRACY AND GOOD GOVERNANCE
Abraham Lincoln in 1863 described Democracy as “Government of the people by the people and for the people”. We are committed to the concept of a representative democracy in which people choose based on informed decisions who they want to represent them and defend their interest and conduct the affairs of the state on their behalf.
The present Constitution was tailor-made to suit the members of the AFPRC, which was preparing to turn themselves into politicians. Despite popular demand the AFPRC ignored the wishes of the Gambian people. A UDP government will introduce Constitutional amendments, which would amongst others include:
a.) limiting the term of the Presidency to 2 terms of 5 years;
b.) limiting the term of local government executives to 3 terms of 4 fours;
c.) making the office of chiefs an elective one;
d.) entrenching provisions relating to the Independent Electoral Commissione.) making provisions, which would enable organisations other than political parties to sponsor candidates for elections.
COMMITMENT TO DEMOCRACY AND HUMAN RIGHTS
The UDP has a fundamental belief in and is committed to democracy and respect for human rights. There can be no sustained and meaningful development in the absence of a genuine democracy. The people of this country have an inalienable right to participate in all decision-making process on all issues affecting their lives and the conditions of their existence.
Fraud waste and embezzlement are absolutely no reasons for the seizure, abuse and demolition of the rights of the citizens of this country or any other country. All citizens of the Gambia must be treated equally as human beings in the eyes of the law.
Everyone has the fundamental right to be listened to and be heard when accused or found to be in breach of the law.
The UDP will ensure the establishment of an Independent judiciary as the executive arms of the law to take all legal actions necessary to preserve the rights and privileges of the society.
We are strongly committed to the protection of the rights of the citizen at all times as reflected in the constitution of the Gambia, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and similar legal instruments that seek to protect the individual against the might of the state. We shall also give full support to the individual against the might of the state. We shall also give full support to the strengthening of the democratic institutions in the country. These will include:
i. Political Parties
Political parties will be recognized as the vehicles for expressing the political will and aspirations of the citizens. As one of the pillars of democratic practice, political parties shall provide the necessary framework for the effective participation of the citizenry in the political process. We shall support and encourage the operations of a multi-party environment that will subscribe to the process of affecting a change of government. Any law that weeks to restrict the operations of such political parties shall be abrogated. As important agencies in the political educational process, the UDP government shall provide support to political parties in carrying out their civic education programs.
ii. The Press
The press has a particularly important role to play in strengthening democracy. It has the responsibility of informing and educating the citizens as well as the government on the concerns, needs and possibilities of the ship of state. To fulfill this role effectively calls for an active press and committed journalists whether from the public or private sector.
We will support and encourage a free press as a pillar or democracy. We will abolish all unjustified restrictions on the press. We shall also ensure that individual privacy and personal information are protected for all citizens.
iii. Civic Education
Civic education can only take place effectively in an atmosphere devoid of authoritarianism. We will encourage and support civic education through the national committees, the schools and the political parties so that the citizens can play a more active and enlightened role in the political development of the country. An enlightened population will be a bulwark against political abuse of power and a defence against military interference in politics.
iv. Judiciary
We shall regard to the Commissions of Inquiries set up by the AFPRC we welcome their existence and the outcomes of their proceedings will be respected. However, we are committed in the name of justice to providing all people who feel unjustly treated an opportunity to appeal before an independent judicial commission for a review of their cases.
v. The security of the Gambia
The role of the Armed Forces, Police and other security agents is to defend the sovereignty of the country and maintain peace and stability for all citizens.
We will provide adequate resources and needed equipment for the effective defense of the country. The Police force will be strengthened to deal with crime and drug trafficking that is becoming a national embarrassment.
We will provide improved professional military and other training facilities to allow the army to play a useful role in the development process especially in constructing roads bridges; and gully erosion control and forest management during peace time.
GETTING THE ECONOMY MOVING
The Gambia successfully implemented a number of bold macro-economic policies in the latter half of the 1980s that have released the productive sectors of the economy from crippling control of the Government. The liberalization of the economy and the encouragement of private sector development constitute a necessary first step on the road to macro-economic policy reforms already undertaken with the support of the World Bank and IMF.
Economic Policy and Management
Our economic policy shall be based on a free market principle, which will aim to secure maximum economic growth through private sector initiatives and development. The UDP government will provide a sound economic environment using prudent fiscal and monetary policies that will aim to achieve the following:
i. Taxation
The current subjective nature of Gambian tax policies giving rise to uncertainties and demotivation for investment and private sector initiatives will be reviewed.
This reduces the current level of taxation for both individuals and companies. The tax system and laws shall be reviewed fully and consolidated to provide the highest level of motivation for services and investments to generate growth. In particular:
To Be Continue
- The bore hole tax of D50,000.00 for agricultural enterprises is a serious impediment for development in that sector and we shall remove such levies;
- The high level of operational fees and charges on hotels and businesses serves as a disincentive for development of industrial business properties shall be reviewed downwards;
- The high level of expatriate tax shall be reduced especially for skilled workers from ECOWAS countries to encourage competence in economic management. Training opportunities shall be opened up to nationals to improve capacities.
- The sales tax on insurance premiums goes on to aggravate the already very low savings position of the country and the UDP will exempt insurance premiums so as to encourage the development of the insurance industry and generate capital accumulation for investment.
ii. Monetary Policy
The object of our monetary policy will be to encourage investment and reduce inflation in the economy. The capacity of the central bank to manage and direct the monetary policy of the economy shall be enhanced.
The regulation and supervision of the financial services sector shall be strengthened to ensure its efficient and prudent operation and maximize protection of depositors’ funds.
A full liberal exchange rate policy will be maintained.
Private Sector
We fully recognize the potentials of the private sector as an engine for growth. We shall support and encourage their activities through the provision of an enabling environment with minimum government intervention.
In view of its pivotal role in the socio-economic development of this nation, the growth and development of the private sector will be an essential and integral component of our overall economic policy.
To ensure the growth and development of this sector as an engine of growth, the UDP administration will:
Ensure regular consultation with the private sector through its umbrella institutions on all issues of concern to put in place policies friendly to the private sector, in a bid to facilitate the achievement of private sector growth.
Always strive to take the views or the private sector as essential inputs in the overall economic policy formulation.
Put in place institutional structures and mechanisms for private sector capacity building to make the sector more proactive and efficient in the execution of its functions.
Encourage and support a healthy private sector partnership for speeding up the achievement of our micro-economic objectives. This will be done through active and positive participation of the private sector.
Small business Development
The culture small business development is not new to the Gambia. Our priority will be to strengthen the institutional support for this sector. In this, we will work with the relevant agencies and organizations the country. We shall update current sectoral surveys and a small business award scheme will be instituted to encourage competition.
Promoting Investment
We shall place a special emphasis on the promotion of investment by providing the necessary tax and other incentives. Investment in the service sector as well as other sectors that are labor intensive shall be encouraged. Current bureaucratic procedures encountered by investors in the processing of claims under the development act shall be streamlined and simplified to eliminate subjectivity and uncertainty.
A special investment promotion body shall be established for the implementation of an aggressive investment policy aimed bringing direct foreign investment, encourage the local enterprises initiative. and facilitate the transfer of technology and expertise.
Power Supplied
Power supply remains a major constraint to our development effort. We need power for our industries, hotels and houses yet we know electricity to be unavailable, or where available irregular and expensive.
We shall increase the generating capacity and thus the supply of electricity; improve the quality of service in distribution and management and to reduce the high cost of electricity charged to industry and also domestic consumers. This policy will improve the competitiveness of Gambian industry. Alternative energy sources will be evaluated and exploited to diversify our options and reduce our dependence on diesel engines, components and fuels, which we imperatively have to import. The bridge barrage project will be revisited with a view to establish its feasibility for implementation. Thus the Gambia can gain the potential for becoming a net exporter of electricity.
The current policy of charging duty on generation fuel shall be reviewed with a view to exempting it from all director taxes.
Human Resource Development and Employment
Our policy will be to invest in the human resources to provide the necessary skilled labor force required for our economic take-off. Employers will be obliged to invest a minimum amount in training their own work force to make a contribution to the national training effort. People will be trained to acquire skills relevant to every aspect of the economy - agriculture, manufacturing, and trade and service industries.
We shall give women real and equal opportunities to work and all employees will be given equal rights and status under law.
Civil Service
The civil service is the largest institution in the country. It has gone through a lot of changes that has robed it of its drive and efficiency. In its present state it needs rehabilitation and reorientation to enable it to cope with the new demands of society, business and industry.
Employment
The UDP government will provide an enabling environment for employment creation. In this regard the reforms envisaged in the agriculture as well as anticipated investment in manufacturing and tourism will lead to the creation of new jobs especially for young people. A culture of self-employment will also be promoted.
Transport and Communication
For a vibrant and sustainable economic development business people need good roads and reliable communication facilities. The road and communication conditions of Gambia today are unacceptable. The road networks have remained all the time largely seasonal; the radio hardly covers the entire country satisfactorily.
The UDP government will open the country by developing a road reconstruction program, which will provide permanent all-season roads for business and communities. Initially, priority will be given to the north bank of the river, which has endemically I suffered from getting less than its fair share of the country’s paved road network.
Radio and telecommunication services will be upgraded and given greater autonomy in programming and operations. Private investment in this sector shall be accorded the enabling policy environment it deserves.
Banjul International Airport and the Seaport shall be developed to maintain the Gateway concept for the Gambia. Government, International Donors and private sector partners will be encouraged to participate in order to realize this greater dream.
INCREASING PRODUCTIVITY IN AGRICULTURE
One of the important handicaps to our development is the low productivity, especially in the agricultural sector where the overwhelming majority of the population is engaged. Raising the productivity of farmers would help raise not only their living standards and thereby reducing poverty, but also create a healthy and well-off rural population who will provide an important domestic market.
- We will develop a national agricultural policy to tackle the low productivity and address the constraints faced by our farmers. This will lead to programs and actions in the following areas.
i. Increasing the yield of the land under cultivation. This will require improved technological packages and efficient extension services. Timely access to credit and other related inputs will be encouraged. .
ii. Increasing the land area under cultivation. This will entail bringing more land under cultivation. In this regard we shall pursue an active policy of more swamp lands rain-fed rice cultivation through the cultivation of dams and other protective structures against salinization and for water conservation. We shall support construction of causeways and footbridges to ease access and movement inputs to, and produce from swamp rice fields.
iii. Improve Credit Service. Access to credit is an important determinant in increasing productivity. Today the credit needs of the farmers have not been addressed satisfactorily. We shall develop a differentiated and responsive credit system that addresses the various credit needs of the various categories of the farming community.
Provision of Agricultural Inputs. The UDP Government will take bold and innovative steps to ensure that agricultural inputs are delivered on a timely basis and in adequate quantities to farmers at reasonable prices. Availability of good quality seeds will be given special attention through, among other things, encouragement of government and private seed production institutions. Village seed banks will be established. The party will address issues relating to farmers at the grassroots level by providing back-up support services in the form of training and other incentives.
iv. Marketing Services. Increased productivity will require market outlets. A network of markets will need to be developed especially for the food crops and horticultural produce that will ensure fair prices for the producers. We shall encourage and support development of such markets at national, sub-regional and international levels. Appropriate technologies will be evaluated on processing and preservation of seasonally available agricultural products to increase incomes and availability during other times of the year.
v. Research and Development. We will develop effective programs to improve on the quality and yield of produce, The successful results of these researches shall be introduced nationwide through efficient and strengthened extension services. Participatory, multidisciplinary and demand driven research strategies, through which sustainable crops and livestock management systems could be put in place, will be adopted.
vi. Institutional Reform and Adaptation. To support the objective of greater agricu1tural productivity the institutions in the agricultural sector will be reviewed and adapted to face the new challenges.
In this respect the Gambia Co-operative Union shall be recorganized and strengthened with greater autonomy in the discharge of their duties. The National Agricultural Research Institute will be capacitized and strengthened in order to enable it to generate agricultural technologies that are environment-friendly and adapted to our socio-economic conditions.
vii. The Soil and Water Management Unit (SSWMU) shall be upgraded and expanded with the object of opening up more land for rain-fed rite and irrigation cultivation in supporting the policy of food security. Also, this unit will be enabled to expand its capacity for tackling the increasing upland soil erosion and degradation problems.
viii. Agricultural Diversification. Agricultural diversification provides another opportunity to raise farm income. In addition to the traditional tree crops, we shall promote the introduction of improved varieties of fruit trees and vegetables. The planting of these trees will not only generate revenue but also improve the vegetation cover. The annual tree planting season will be reinstated but
Fisheries
The UDP government fully recognizes the potential of this sub-sector both interms of food and foreign exchange earnings and shall implement appropriate polities for its sustainable development. We shall encourage diversification and efficient management of our fishery resources with a view to optimizing utilization in order to improve the diets and incomes of the cross section of our society.
DEVELOPING EDUCATION AND SCHOOLS
Education, both basic as a right of an individual and a means of achieving personal fulfillment, will be a major policy objective. Furthermore education is closely related to the economy, as it is a major partner in development. In view of this the development of our human resources through education and training is a necessary step in achieving economic growth and development.
We believe that the development of our human resources can contribute to the attainment of such objectives as poverty alleviation, social and economic development. We arc committed to providing universal access to primary education, and improve the intake for secondary and vocational education. This will ensure the full participation or all group in society in the process or economic growth and development in line with our national program of skills training and development.
Provision of Quality Basic Education
The current Education Policy shall be regularly reviewed with the objective of providing quality basic education for all Gambian children with improved teaching standards and material resources: The conditions or teachers shall be improved to attract more Gambians to the teaching profession particularly in the middle and high schools.
Basic education will provide facilities for all citizens to be literate and numerate, and help them to cultivate knowledge, skills, and attitudes that will enable them to earn a good living, improve their social and health circumstances, be patriotic citizens, and. understand the complexities and opportunities of the modern world.
Secondary Education
We shall increase and consolidate the number and quality of secondary schools in our country to give an increased level of opportunity for children passing the primary level examinations. Our objective is to minimize and eventually eliminate the wastage of potential skills through dropouts because of insufficient secondary schools and national qualified teachers.
Tertiary Education
Tertiary education will be fully supported but a more comprehensive and thought out university development program that addresses our needs shall be developed instead of the current ad-hoc arrangement. We shall have a policy of promoting vocational and skills training needs of the economy.
Training of education sector personnel
The effective implementation of our education policy requires a comprehensive and coordinated policy for the professional development of all education personnel. This is important and critical for teachers at all levels of our education system. Training shall either be internal or external according to need. Careful attention shall be given to I devising low-cost training strategies like school-based training and the use of distance learning.
In addition to training educational managers, the implementation of our educational. system as manifested in the national education plan, shall require improved co-ordination of all education services and, in particular enhance capacity to develop policy, to understand long-term planning. Monitor and evaluate all education programs and projects.
Financing of education
To achieve the aims and objectives of our education policy for improved access to basic education and to enhance its quality and relevance, the educational system shall require increased level of funding from domestic as well as extena1 sources. This shall entail:
a. Increase in central government funding to education with more support to basic education.
b. Local governments shall be required to commit substantial support to education.
c. Development of self-help schemes for funding education shall be encouraged.
d. External assistance to basic education through investment and recurrent expenditure shall be encouraged.
e. Non governmental agencies and intergovernmental organizations’ contributions to education shall be solicited
Youth, Sports and Cultural Development
It is our belief that the Gambian youth have great potentials that need to be explored and developed as resource for our national advancement. The current pathetic state of neglect of this sector, which is considered as a vital industry that positively impact on other sectors, will be addressed. We shall review the National Youth Policy with a view to giving the youths of our country a more meaningful opportunity to participate and compete in the world arena.
We will in particular:
- Giving the youths a much better opportunity to participate fully in the decision-making process by strengthening the independence and democratic operation of the Federations.
- Improve and expand the arena available for sporting activity. It is important that every administrative region has al least a standard functional sporting , field.
- We will give sports the resources and recognition it deserve and encourage other participators to contribute.
- We shall identify and prioritize national sporting activities in order to optimize the use of available resources.
- The UDP will formulate comprehensive cultural policies and programs to enhance our cultural heritage in all its aspects.
HEALTH AND POPULATION
Over the past years the Gambia has developed a very good primary health care system. Our party shall consolidate the achievements in this system and actively promote reproductive and preventive health initiatives. We shall encourage family planning, immunization of children and promote sound environmental management in order to improve the overall health of the population.
Another important constraint in the health sector is the extent of centralization of health services in the Greater Banjul Area. In keeping with the Bamako initiative, health Ii administration and financial needs to be decentralized at divisional leve1s to allow greater participation of the community in the health management and delivery system. The UDP Government shall carry out a systematic decentralization program of the health management and personnel to ensure accessible and affordable health services to all Gambians.
Drug Abuse and Control
The UDP recognizes the danger that drugs pose to our society and economy. We shall prepare appropriate policy measures to prevent drug abuse and institute rehabilitation of drug addicts. We shall ensure that our country does not become the save heaven and springboard for national and international drug traffickers.
PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT
Currently the Gambia faces serious environmental problems, which range from natural resource degradation to the disposal of household waste in urban and peri-urban areas. Erosion, especially along the riverbanks and the marine coastline, pose a serious threat to infrastructure and human settlements.
The UDP views these environmental problems as serious requiring a more focused and concerted effort on the part of Government to ensure ecological balance and rational exploitation of our natural resources.
Improving Waste Management and Sanitation
The current population of the Greater Banjul Area is about 300,000 and growing at a rate of 8.1% per annum. The large amount of waste especially household waste and other non-biodegradable substances calls for an improved collection as well as disposal system to ensure that no hazard threatens the peoples and their environment.
In the rural areas it is estimated that 50% of the rural population have access to the most rudimental sanitation facilities. The implications of this with regards to communicable diseased arc serious. The UDP shall promote the improvement of waste management as well as improve the sanitation facilities in the rural areas.
Rural Water Supply
The various rural water supply programs in the past have substantially improved rural water supply in terms of the provision of concrete-lined and covered wells fitted with hand pumps. The various programs came to halt after the 1994 military take-over. In spite of the good work undertaken in all these programs, 50% of the rural population are still without any safe drinking water. The UDP considers water supply in the rural areas a nation priority that will be reviewed and strengthened, as appropriate.
TOWARDS SOCIAL JUSTICE
The UDP strongly believes in social justice it shall therefore strive consistently to ensure that disparities in economic and social conditions are reduced in the interest or social justice and harmony. The UDP shall adopt a systematic policy to improve the social condition of the disadvantaged groups in our society who arc largely farmers, women, urban unemployed etc by narrowing the gap in the life chances, employment opportunities and real incomes. We shall in this regard insist on the following priority Issues:
Poverty Alleviation
It is estimated that 60% of the Gambian population suffer from absolute poverty. In terms of food poverty about 65%1 of the Gambian population arc food poor. What is particularly lamentable is that women constitute the majority of this deprived segment of the population. The UDP is therefore committed to collaborate with development partners in embarking poverty eradication programs with particular emphasis on food security. Of equal importance, is the development of cottage industries and medium scale enterprises. In this regard, emphasis will be placed on income generating employment opportunities, establishment of skill centers and the development of national capacity for employment creation.
The UDP is equally committed to providing sound health for all Gambians with particular emphasis on safe motherhood, family planning, child survival, proper nutrition, control or common endemic diseases, health promotion, protection and provisional of essential drugs and vaccines.
The ultimate objective is to, among other things, provide the environment for a reduction in infant and maternal mortality rates whiles simultaneously ensuring significant improvements in the quality of service as well as their efficiency, effectiveness and sustainability. In the context of education, the UDP will solicit the assistance of NGOs and self-helped communities, organizations to the educational system.
Area councils will be involved in educational investment decisions. Parents will be expected to contribute within their means to the cost of their children’s schooling through user charges. The importance of the contribution of technical and vocation training to the economy will continue to be recognized through the provision of adequate financing and support to the sector.
UDP will foster the autonomy of national training institutions through a policy of decentralization, which will allow them to seek their own solution to their problem and to forge closer link with their Iabor market. By the same token, UDP will place emphasis on non-formal education as a means of assisting early school leavers, women and adults in need of marketable skills. The UDP will equally facilitate development of national capacities to initiate and manage programs as well as projects at local community and national levels.
PROTECTING WOMEN AND CHILDREN
Women and children constitute two of the most vulnerable groups in our society and they experience the more acute forms of social ills of society such as poverty and deprivation. In the interest or social justice and harmony the constraint raced by these groups’ needs to be addressed as a national priority.
We arc committed to protecting all the rights of women and children and increase the level of opportunities as a national priority.
EXTERNAL RELATIONS.
We are living today in a very small world where the interdependency of nations has been so great. In this simple big family no one nation can afford to stand all by itself. This is even truer in the ease of small countries to which external relations provides a further strength to national independence and sovereignty. We shall strive to maintain and protect the independence of the Gambia and protect and promote Gambian interests in all international forums in keeping with our constitution and the rights and aspirations of the Gambian People.
We shall encourage and support friendship with all nations in support of democracy and in the promotion of human, social and economic rights of all people. The UDP shall strive for the Gambia to gain the respect and admiration it has lost in the international community.
Good Neighborliness in the Sub Region
We the UDP shall endeavor to maintain good fraternal relations with all countries in the sub-region particularly Senegal with which we share an unparalleled affinity in all aspects of our existence. It shall be our policy to work with them to establish a framework for regular consultation to review relations between the two countries with special attention on any difficulties that may arise.
Regional, Sub-Regional and International Organizations
The UDP strongly believes in sub-regional co-operation in the interest of peace, stability and development. The existing regional and sub-regional organizations such as ECOWAS provide a valuable framework for the realization of greater integration and development within the sub-region.
We believe ECOWAS needs to be strengthened and given the necessary resources to perform its mission objectives.
With respect to the plethora of small sub regional organizations that in many cases duplicate each other’s efforts, it shall be our policy to seek to reduce the number of such organizations in the interest of efficiency and resource savings.
As regards international organizations such as IOC, UN, GATT, Commonwealth, World Bank and IMF, we shall continue to play an active part to promote Gambian interest in the organizations.
Partnership with Donors
The Gambia has depended a lot on the generous assistance of the donor community in pursuit of its development objectives. Without their assistance the country would have been a lot poorer that it is today. The UDP shall build on the support of our development partners within the context of a renewed national commitment to serving the interest of the Gambian people.
PLEDGE
We as a party pledge ourselves to the presentation and protection of the principle of democratic pluralism and the rule of law. We consider their principles as the fundamental basis for the socio-economic development of our nation.
Through this pledge, we invite the Gambian people to join us to put an end forever, to Militocracy and its manifestations. Hands of solidarity to all Gambians to join us create a bright prosperous and pluralistic society second to none on the continent.
THE END
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I do not oppose unity but I oppose dumb union. |
Edited by - Nyarikangbanna on 25 Feb 2007 13:13:47 |
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Nyarikangbanna
United Kingdom
1382 Posts |
Posted - 25 Feb 2007 : 12:20:15
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quote:
The inclusiveness I mentioned above is not about tribal, gender or origin. What I was referring to is the governing agenda. When a serious and well founded political party which is supposedly the largest wants to lead the rest, they must look into other party's agendas in governing and share their concerns and interest.........
If you disagree with this assertion please post on the Bantaba your party's governing platform and programs that addresses issues like Term Limit, Limited Presidential powers, a clear agenda to address our socioeconomic and educational disasters. Honor this request and we can continue the debate on party lead coalition...
I accept the first paragraph but with regards to Presidential term limit, the UDP have made it clear since 1996 and even incorporated it into their party constitution, that a future UDP or UDP-lead government will cap the tenure for the presidency to two terms. This position remains the same as it is line with universal democratic norms.
As for your request,please read below UDP's 2006 Election Manifesto. Thanks
UDP 2006 Party Manifesto
This note contains the manifesto of the United Democratic Party (UDP) which it intends to present as a policy guideline in the forth-coming Presidential/Parliamentary elections.
It is a statement of intentions in respect of socio-economic development as well as institutional and constitutional arrangements it proposes to put in place during its terms of office in the second Republic. The party intends to be identified with the pronouncements in this manifesto the overall aim of which is “The Transformation of the Gambia into a heaven of peace and prosperity.”
In this regard, major policy areas have been identified across the board and are carefully examined to reflect their relevance to the realization of the above objectives. The range from strengthening democracy and sound governance, security matters, economic policies in which free market economy, trade liberalization and monetary and fiscal development to provide an enabling environment for a balanced and sustainable economic growth and development. A pragmatic foreign policy has also been highlighted.
Reforms in the civil service have been mentioned and special emphasis has been placed in National Unity, Social Justice, Poverty Alleviation, economic management, and empowerment of women and good governance. This is consistent with the UDP Government’s thematic areas will usher in national unity, social justice and more importantly fundamental and positive changes in attitudes. Mention has also been made of drugs abuse and program envisaged for the rehabilitation of drug addicts.
The transformation of the Gambia into a heaven of peace and prosperity through the realization of our economic objectives for a balanced and sustainable economic growth and for self-reliance is the hallmark of our national policy. In our view this will guarantee Poverty Alleviation through an uplifting in our agricultural productivity, industrialization of the economy and the development of the country. Consequently the UDP is determined to mobilize all resources both internal and external for the fullest development of the country. We have opted for a free market economy as point of departure in our economic strategy. We are opted for a free market economy as point of departure in our economic strategy. We are determined that with the co-operation of our development partners we achieve this goal of improving the well being of the Gambian people. The potential is available and in place and we are not wanting in the will and determination to forge ahead.
a.) INTRODUCTION
We the people of the Gambia have arrived at cross roads. The transition period has come to an end and the military, contrary to initial promises, have declared their desire to perpetuate themselves in office. The choice that we have to make is clear, between a military government disguised in civilian consume and a genuine democratic civilian policies to place the Gambia among the progressive nations of the world. We will provide such a government.
Important though is the choice between policies these elections are also a choice between values. At the heart of our conviction is the belief in the freedom of the individual. We believe that for freedom to have real meaning, standards of public service must be high and widely accessible.
That the rights of the individual, like all others in a free society, are the same for all men and women irrespective or age, ethnic origin and class.
Finally for these rights and responsibilities to be exercised fully and fairly, the Government of the Gambia must work hard to promote the general well-being of the Gambian people by adequately supporting initiative, research and innovation, the improvement of skills, infrastructure and industrial development.
Guided by these values, we will make the Gambia more competitive, productive and just, more secured against crime and more conscious of the danger of environmental degradation. The government must serve the whole nation. We will provide such government.
The realities of current world order require that the government provide; a stable economic environment; that lays firm emphasis on productive investment in both the public and private sectors, education and training to develop the skills of young people and adults.
The UDP will implement these policies as vital for improvement in living standards of the people. We have confidence in our country and its people. We want to create a society to provide equal opportunities for all and promote development of the people’s potentials and the exercise of their rights. We shall therefore introduce constitutional and other changes that will give renewed vigour to our democracy.
These policies like demonstrating our practical commitment to freedom. We will strive to revive a cordial relationship with our neighbours, in particular Senegal; strengthen our participation in ECOWAS, OAU, the Commonwealth of Nations and the United Nations.
We will respect and implement the UN Charter, and the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights and all other treaties ratified by the Gambia.
It is time for change, time for fresh start a new beginning in our lives and in the life of our country. The Choice is clear. An APRC government would mean the perpetuation of economic stagnation, political isolating and a repressive social environment. The military in Africa have proved beyond doubt what they are capable of doing while in government.
They have no policies, which would mean sustained development, better health care or improved educational standards.
The UDP government will give a fresh start for the Gambia. It will mean action to rebuild confidence, fair taxation and incentives for enterprise and support for essential services. It will mean greater freedom, security and Opportunity.
STRENGTHENING DEMOCRACY AND GOOD GOVERNANCE
Abraham Lincoln in 1863 described Democracy as “Government of the people by the people and for the people”. We are committed to the concept of a representative democracy in which people choose based on informed decisions who they want to represent them and defend their interest and conduct the affairs of the state on their behalf.
The present Constitution was tailor-made to suit the members of the AFPRC, which was preparing to turn themselves into politicians. Despite popular demand the AFPRC ignored the wishes of the Gambian people. A UDP government will introduce Constitutional amendments, which would amongst others include:
a.) limiting the term of the Presidency to 2 terms of 5 years;
b.) limiting the term of local government executives to 3 terms of 4 fours;
c.) making the office of chiefs an elective one;
d.) entrenching provisions relating to the Independent Electoral Commissione.) making provisions, which would enable organisations other than political parties to sponsor candidates for elections.
COMMITMENT TO DEMOCRACY AND HUMAN RIGHTS
The UDP has a fundamental belief in and is committed to democracy and respect for human rights. There can be no sustained and meaningful development in the absence of a genuine democracy. The people of this country have an inalienable right to participate in all decision-making process on all issues affecting their lives and the conditions of their existence.
Fraud waste and embezzlement are absolutely no reasons for the seizure, abuse and demolition of the rights of the citizens of this country or any other country. All citizens of the Gambia must be treated equally as human beings in the eyes of the law.
Everyone has the fundamental right to be listened to and be heard when accused or found to be in breach of the law.
The UDP will ensure the establishment of an Independent judiciary as the executive arms of the law to take all legal actions necessary to preserve the rights and privileges of the society.
We are strongly committed to the protection of the rights of the citizen at all times as reflected in the constitution of the Gambia, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and similar legal instruments that seek to protect the individual against the might of the state. We shall also give full support to the individual against the might of the state. We shall also give full support to the strengthening of the democratic institutions in the country. These will include:
i. Political Parties
Political parties will be recognized as the vehicles for expressing the political will and aspirations of the citizens. As one of the pillars of democratic practice, political parties shall provide the necessary framework for the effective participation of the citizenry in the political process. We shall support and encourage the operations of a multi-party environment that will subscribe to the process of affecting a change of government. Any law that weeks to restrict the operations of such political parties shall be abrogated. As important agencies in the political educational process, the UDP government shall provide support to political parties in carrying out their civic education programs.
ii. The Press
The press has a particularly important role to play in strengthening democracy. It has the responsibility of informing and educating the citizens as well as the government on the concerns, needs and possibilities of the ship of state. To fulfill this role effectively calls for an active press and committed journalists whether from the public or private sector.
We will support and encourage a free press as a pillar or democracy. We will abolish all unjustified restrictions on the press. We shall also ensure that individual privacy and personal information are protected for all citizens.
iii. Civic Education
Civic education can only take place effectively in an atmosphere devoid of authoritarianism. We will encourage and support civic education through the national committees, the schools and the political parties so that the citizens can play a more active and enlightened role in the political development of the country. An enlightened population will be a bulwark against political abuse of power and a defence against military interference in politics.
iv. Judiciary
We shall regard to the Commissions of Inquiries set up by the AFPRC we welcome their existence and the outcomes of their proceedings will be respected. However, we are committed in the name of justice to providing all people who feel unjustly treated an opportunity to appeal before an independent judicial commission for a review of their cases.
v. The security of the Gambia
The role of the Armed Forces, Police and other security agents is to defend the sovereignty of the country and maintain peace and stability for all citizens.
We will provide adequate resources and needed equipment for the effective defense of the country. The Police force will be strengthened to deal with crime and drug trafficking that is becoming a national embarrassment.
We will provide improved professional military and other training facilities to allow the army to play a useful role in the development process especially in constructing roads bridges; and gully erosion control and forest management during peace time.
GETTING THE ECONOMY MOVING
The Gambia successfully implemented a number of bold macro-economic policies in the latter half of the 1980s that have released the productive sectors of the economy from crippling control of the Government. The liberalization of the economy and the encouragement of private sector development constitute a necessary first step on the road to macro-economic policy reforms already undertaken with the support of the World Bank and IMF.
Economic Policy and Management
Our economic policy shall be based on a free market principle, which will aim to secure maximum economic growth through private sector initiatives and development. The UDP government will provide a sound economic environment using prudent fiscal and monetary policies that will aim to achieve the following:
i. Taxation
The current subjective nature of Gambian tax policies giving rise to uncertainties and demotivation for investment and private sector initiatives will be reviewed.
This reduces the current level of taxation for both individuals and companies. The tax system and laws shall be reviewed fully and consolidated to provide the highest level of motivation for services and investments to generate growth. In particular:
To Be Continue
- The bore hole tax of D50,000.00 for agricultural enterprises is a serious impediment for development in that sector and we shall remove such levies;
- The high level of operational fees and charges on hotels and businesses serves as a disincentive for development of industrial business properties shall be reviewed downwards;
- The high level of expatriate tax shall be reduced especially for skilled workers from ECOWAS countries to encourage competence in economic management. Training opportunities shall be opened up to nationals to improve capacities.
- The sales tax on insurance premiums goes on to aggravate the already very low savings position of the country and the UDP will exempt insurance premiums so as to encourage the development of the insurance industry and generate capital accumulation for investment.
ii. Monetary Policy
The object of our monetary policy will be to encourage investment and reduce inflation in the economy. The capacity of the central bank to manage and direct the monetary policy of the economy shall be enhanced.
The regulation and supervision of the financial services sector shall be strengthened to ensure its efficient and prudent operation and maximize protection of depositors’ funds.
A full liberal exchange rate policy will be maintained.
Private Sector
We fully recognize the potentials of the private sector as an engine for growth. We shall support and encourage their activities through the provision of an enabling environment with minimum government intervention.
In view of its pivotal role in the socio-economic development of this nation, the growth and development of the private sector will be an essential and integral component of our overall economic policy.
To ensure the growth and development of this sector as an engine of growth, the UDP administration will:
Ensure regular consultation with the private sector through its umbrella institutions on all issues of concern to put in place policies friendly to the private sector, in a bid to facilitate the achievement of private sector growth.
Always strive to take the views or the private sector as essential inputs in the overall economic policy formulation.
Put in place institutional structures and mechanisms for private sector capacity building to make the sector more proactive and efficient in the execution of its functions.
Encourage and support a healthy private sector partnership for speeding up the achievement of our micro-economic objectives. This will be done through active and positive participation of the private sector.
Small business Development
The culture small business development is not new to the Gambia. Our priority will be to strengthen the institutional support for this sector. In this, we will work with the relevant agencies and organizations the country. We shall update current sectoral surveys and a small business award scheme will be instituted to encourage competition.
Promoting Investment
We shall place a special emphasis on the promotion of investment by providing the necessary tax and other incentives. Investment in the service sector as well as other sectors that are labor intensive shall be encouraged. Current bureaucratic procedures encountered by investors in the processing of claims under the development act shall be streamlined and simplified to eliminate subjectivity and uncertainty.
A special investment promotion body shall be established for the implementation of an aggressive investment policy aimed bringing direct foreign investment, encourage the local enterprises initiative. and facilitate the transfer of technology and expertise.
Power Supplied
Power supply remains a major constraint to our development effort. We need power for our industries, hotels and houses yet we know electricity to be unavailable, or where available irregular and expensive.
We shall increase the generating capacity and thus the supply of electricity; improve the quality of service in distribution and management and to reduce the high cost of electricity charged to industry and also domestic consumers. This policy will improve the competitiveness of Gambian industry. Alternative energy sources will be evaluated and exploited to diversify our options and reduce our dependence on diesel engines, components and fuels, which we imperatively have to import. The bridge barrage project will be revisited with a view to establish its feasibility for implementation. Thus the Gambia can gain the potential for becoming a net exporter of electricity.
The current policy of charging duty on generation fuel shall be reviewed with a view to exempting it from all director taxes.
Human Resource Development and Employment
Our policy will be to invest in the human resources to provide the necessary skilled labor force required for our economic take-off. Employers will be obliged to invest a minimum amount in training their own work force to make a contribution to the national training effort. People will be trained to acquire skills relevant to every aspect of the economy - agriculture, manufacturing, and trade and service industries.
We shall give women real and equal opportunities to work and all employees will be given equal rights and status under law.
Civil Service
The civil service is the largest institution in the country. It has gone through a lot of changes that has robed it of its drive and efficiency. In its present state it needs rehabilitation and reorientation to enable it to cope with the new demands of society, business and industry.
Employment
The UDP government will provide an enabling environment for employment creation. In this regard the reforms envisaged in the agriculture as well as anticipated investment in manufacturing and tourism will lead to the creation of new jobs especially for young people. A culture of self-employment will also be promoted.
Transport and Communication
For a vibrant and sustainable economic development business people need good roads and reliable communication facilities. The road and communication conditions of Gambia today are unacceptable. The road networks have remained all the time largely seasonal; the radio hardly covers the entire country satisfactorily.
The UDP government will open the country by developing a road reconstruction program, which will provide permanent all-season roads for business and communities. Initially, priority will be given to the north bank of the river, which has endemically I suffered from getting less than its fair share of the country’s paved road network.
Radio and telecommunication services will be upgraded and given greater autonomy in programming and operations. Private investment in this sector shall be accorded the enabling policy environment it deserves.
Banjul International Airport and the Seaport shall be developed to maintain the Gateway concept for the Gambia. Government, International Donors and private sector partners will be encouraged to participate in order to realize this greater dream.
INCREASING PRODUCTIVITY IN AGRICULTURE
One of the important handicaps to our development is the low productivity, especially in the agricultural sector where the overwhelming majority of the population is engaged. Raising the productivity of farmers would help raise not only their living standards and thereby reducing poverty, but also create a healthy and well-off rural population who will provide an important domestic market.
- We will develop a national agricultural policy to tackle the low productivity and address the constraints faced by our farmers. This will lead to programs and actions in the following areas.
i. Increasing the yield of the land under cultivation. This will require improved technological packages and efficient extension services. Timely access to credit and other related inputs will be encouraged. .
ii. Increasing the land area under cultivation. This will entail bringing more land under cultivation. In this regard we shall pursue an active policy of more swamp lands rain-fed rice cultivation through the cultivation of dams and other protective structures against salinization and for water conservation. We shall support construction of causeways and footbridges to ease access and movement inputs to, and produce from swamp rice fields.
iii. Improve Credit Service. Access to credit is an important determinant in increasing productivity. Today the credit needs of the farmers have not been addressed satisfactorily. We shall develop a differentiated and responsive credit system that addresses the various credit needs of the various categories of the farming community.
Provision of Agricultural Inputs. The UDP Government will take bold and innovative steps to ensure that agricultural inputs are delivered on a timely basis and in adequate quantities to farmers at reasonable prices. Availability of good quality seeds will be given special attention through, among other things, encouragement of government and private seed production institutions. Village seed banks will be established. The party will address issues relating to farmers at the grassroots level by providing back-up support services in the form of training and other incentives.
iv. Marketing Services. Increased productivity will require market outlets. A network of markets will need to be developed especially for the food crops and horticultural produce that will ensure fair prices for the producers. We shall encourage and support development of such markets at national, sub-regional and international levels. Appropriate technologies will be evaluated on processing and preservation of seasonally available agricultural products to increase incomes and availability during other times of the year.
v. Research and Development. We will develop effective programs to improve on the quality and yield of produce, The successful results of these researches shall be introduced nationwide through efficient and strengthened extension services. Participatory, multidisciplinary and demand driven research strategies, through which sustainable crops and livestock management systems could be put in place, will be adopted.
vi. Institutional Reform and Adaptation. To support the objective of greater agricu1tural productivity the institutions in the agricultural sector will be reviewed and adapted to face the new challenges.
In this respect the Gambia Co-operative Union shall be recorganized and strengthened with greater autonomy in the discharge of their duties. The National Agricultural Research Institute will be capacitized and strengthened in order to enable it to generate agricultural technologies that are environment-friendly and adapted to our socio-economic conditions.
vii. The Soil and Water Management Unit (SSWMU) shall be upgraded and expanded with the object of opening up more land for rain-fed rite and irrigation cultivation in supporting the policy of food security. Also, this unit will be enabled to expand its capacity for tackling the increasing upland soil erosion and degradation problems.
viii. Agricultural Diversification. Agricultural diversification provides another opportunity to raise farm income. In addition to the traditional tree crops, we shall promote the introduction of improved varieties of fruit trees and vegetables. The planting of these trees will not only generate revenue but also improve the vegetation cover. The annual tree planting season will be reinstated but
Fisheries
The UDP government fully recognizes the potential of this sub-sector both interms of food and foreign exchange earnings and shall implement appropriate polities for its sustainable development. We shall encourage diversification and efficient management of our fishery resources with a view to optimizing utilization in order to improve the diets and incomes of the cross section of our society.
DEVELOPING EDUCATION AND SCHOOLS
Education, both basic as a right of an individual and a means of achieving personal fulfillment, will be a major policy objective. Furthermore education is closely related to the economy, as it is a major partner in development. In view of this the development of our human resources through education and training is a necessary step in achieving economic growth and development.
We believe that the development of our human resources can contribute to the attainment of such objectives as poverty alleviation, social and economic development. We arc committed to providing universal access to primary education, and improve the intake for secondary and vocational education. This will ensure the full participation or all group in society in the process or economic growth and development in line with our national program of skills training and development.
Provision of Quality Basic Education
The current Education Policy shall be regularly reviewed with the objective of providing quality basic education for all Gambian children with improved teaching standards and material resources: The conditions or teachers shall be improved to attract more Gambians to the teaching profession particularly in the middle and high schools.
Basic education will provide facilities for all citizens to be literate and numerate, and help them to cultivate knowledge, skills, and attitudes that will enable them to earn a good living, improve their social and health circumstances, be patriotic citizens, and. understand the complexities and opportunities of the modern world.
Secondary Education
We shall increase and consolidate the number and quality of secondary schools in our country to give an increased level of opportunity for children passing the primary level examinations. Our objective is to minimize and eventually eliminate the wastage of potential skills through dropouts because of insufficient secondary schools and national qualified teachers.
Tertiary Education
Tertiary education will be fully supported but a more comprehensive and thought out university development program that addresses our needs shall be developed instead of the current ad-hoc arrangement. We shall have a policy of promoting vocational and skills training needs of the economy.
Training of education sector personnel
The effective implementation of our education policy requires a comprehensive and coordinated policy for the professional development of all education personnel. This is important and critical for teachers at all levels of our education system. Training shall either be internal or external according to need. Careful attention shall be given to I devising low-cost training strategies like school-based training and the use of distance learning.
In addition to training educational managers, the implementation of our educational. system as manifested in the national education plan, shall require improved co-ordination of all education services and, in particular enhance capacity to develop policy, to understand long-term planning. Monitor and evaluate all education programs and projects.
Financing of education
To achieve the aims and objectives of our education policy for improved access to basic education and to enhance its quality and relevance, the educational system shall require increased level of funding from domestic as well as extena1 sources. This shall entail:
a. Increase in central government funding to education with more support to basic education.
b. Local governments shall be required to commit substantial support to education.
c. Development of self-help schemes for funding education shall be encouraged.
d. External assistance to basic education through investment and recurrent expenditure shall be encouraged.
e. Non governmental agencies and intergovernmental organizations’ contributions to education shall be solicited
Youth, Sports and Cultural Development
It is our belief that the Gambian youth have great potentials that need to be explored and developed as resource for our national advancement. The current pathetic state of neglect of this sector, which is considered as a vital industry that positively impact on other sectors, will be addressed. We shall review the National Youth Policy with a view to giving the youths of our country a more meaningful opportunity to participate and compete in the world arena.
We will in particular:
- Giving the youths a much better opportunity to participate fully in the decision-making process by strengthening the independence and democratic operation of the Federations.
- Improve and expand the arena available for sporting activity. It is important that every administrative region has al least a standard functional sporting , field.
- We will give sports the resources and recognition it deserve and encourage other participators to contribute.
- We shall identify and prioritize national sporting activities in order to optimize the use of available resources.
- The UDP will formulate comprehensive cultural policies and programs to enhance our cultural heritage in all its aspects.
HEALTH AND POPULATION
Over the past years the Gambia has developed a very good primary health care system. Our party shall consolidate the achievements in this system and actively promote reproductive and preventive health initiatives. We shall encourage family planning, immunization of children and promote sound environmental management in order to improve the overall health of the population.
Another important constraint in the health sector is the extent of centralization of health services in the Greater Banjul Area. In keeping with the Bamako initiative, health Ii administration and financial needs to be decentralized at divisional leve1s to allow greater participation of the community in the health management and delivery system. The UDP Government shall carry out a systematic decentralization program of the health management and personnel to ensure accessible and affordable health services to all Gambians.
Drug Abuse and Control
The UDP recognizes the danger that drugs pose to our society and economy. We shall prepare appropriate policy measures to prevent drug abuse and institute rehabilitation of drug addicts. We shall ensure that our country does not become the save heaven and springboard for national and international drug traffickers.
PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT
Currently the Gambia faces serious environmental problems, which range from natural resource degradation to the disposal of household waste in urban and peri-urban areas. Erosion, especially along the riverbanks and the marine coastline, pose a serious threat to infrastructure and human settlements.
The UDP views these environmental problems as serious requiring a more focused and concerted effort on the part of Government to ensure ecological balance and rational exploitation of our natural resources.
Improving Waste Management and Sanitation
The current population of the Greater Banjul Area is about 300,000 and growing at a rate of 8.1% per annum. The large amount of waste especially household waste and other non-biodegradable substances calls for an improved collection as well as disposal system to ensure that no hazard threatens the peoples and their environment.
In the rural areas it is estimated that 50% of the rural population have access to the most rudimental sanitation facilities. The implications of this with regards to communicable diseased arc serious. The UDP shall promote the improvement of waste management as well as improve the sanitation facilities in the rural areas.
Rural Water Supply
The various rural water supply programs in the past have substantially improved rural water supply in terms of the provision of concrete-lined and covered wells fitted with hand pumps. The various programs came to halt after the 1994 military take-over. In spite of the good work undertaken in all these programs, 50% of the rural population are still without any safe drinking water. The UDP considers water supply in the rural areas a nation priority that will be reviewed and strengthened, as appropriate.
TOWARDS SOCIAL JUSTICE
The UDP strongly believes in social justice it shall therefore strive consistently to ensure that disparities in economic and social conditions are reduced in the interest or social justice and harmony. The UDP shall adopt a systematic policy to improve the social condition of the disadvantaged groups in our society who arc largely farmers, women, urban unemployed etc by narrowing the gap in the life chances, employment opportunities and real incomes. We shall in this regard insist on the following priority Issues:
Poverty Alleviation
It is estimated that 60% of the Gambian population suffer from absolute poverty. In terms of food poverty about 65%1 of the Gambian population arc food poor. What is particularly lamentable is that women constitute the majority of this deprived segment of the population. The UDP is therefore committed to collaborate with development partners in embarking poverty eradication programs with particular emphasis on food security. Of equal importance, is the development of cottage industries and medium scale enterprises. In this regard, emphasis will be placed on income generating employment opportunities, establishment of skill centers and the development of national capacity for employment creation.
The UDP is equally committed to providing sound health for all Gambians with particular emphasis on safe motherhood, family planning, child survival, proper nutrition, control or common endemic diseases, health promotion, protection and provisional of essential drugs and vaccines.
The ultimate objective is to, among other things, provide the environment for a reduction in infant and maternal mortality rates whiles simultaneously ensuring significant improvements in the quality of service as well as their efficiency, effectiveness and sustainability. In the context of education, the UDP will solicit the assistance of NGOs and self-helped communities, organizations to the educational system.
Area councils will be involved in educational investment decisions. Parents will be expected to contribute within their means to the cost of their children’s schooling through user charges. The importance of the contribution of technical and vocation training to the economy will continue to be recognized through the provision of adequate financing and support to the sector.
UDP will foster the autonomy of national training institutions through a policy of decentralization, which will allow them to seek their own solution to their problem and to forge closer link with their Iabor market. By the same token, UDP will place emphasis on non-formal education as a means of assisting early school leavers, women and adults in need of marketable skills. The UDP will equally facilitate development of national capacities to initiate and manage programs as well as projects at local community and national levels.
PROTECTING WOMEN AND CHILDREN
Women and children constitute two of the most vulnerable groups in our society and they experience the more acute forms of social ills of society such as poverty and deprivation. In the interest or social justice and harmony the constraint raced by these groups’ needs to be addressed as a national priority.
We arc committed to protecting all the rights of women and children and increase the level of opportunities as a national priority.
EXTERNAL RELATIONS.
We are living today in a very small world where the interdependency of nations has been so great. In this simple big family no one nation can afford to stand all by itself. This is even truer in the ease of small countries to which external relations provides a further strength to national independence and sovereignty. We shall strive to maintain and protect the independence of the Gambia and protect and promote Gambian interests in all international forums in keeping with our constitution and the rights and aspirations of the Gambian People.
We shall encourage and support friendship with all nations in support of democracy and in the promotion of human, social and economic rights of all people. The UDP shall strive for the Gambia to gain the respect and admiration it has lost in the international community.
Good Neighborliness in the Sub Region
We the UDP shall endeavor to maintain good fraternal relations with all countries in the sub-region particularly Senegal with which we share an unparalleled affinity in all aspects of our existence. It shall be our policy to work with them to establish a framework for regular consultation to review relations between the two countries with special attention on any difficulties that may arise.
Regional, Sub-Regional and International Organizations
The UDP strongly believes in sub-regional co-operation in the interest of peace, stability and development. The existing regional and sub-regional organizations such as ECOWAS provide a valuable framework for the realization of greater integration and development within the sub-region.
We believe ECOWAS needs to be strengthened and given the necessary resources to perform its mission objectives.
With respect to the plethora of small sub regional organizations that in many cases duplicate each other’s efforts, it shall be our policy to seek to reduce the number of such organizations in the interest of efficiency and resource savings.
As regards international organizations such as IOC, UN, GATT, Commonwealth, World Bank and IMF, we shall continue to play an active part to promote Gambian interest in the organizations.
Partnership with Donors
The Gambia has depended a lot on the generous assistance of the donor community in pursuit of its development objectives. Without their assistance the country would have been a lot poorer that it is today. The UDP shall build on the support of our development partners within the context of a renewed national commitment to serving the interest of the Gambian people.
PLEDGE
We as a party pledge ourselves to the presentation and protection of the principle of democratic pluralism and the rule of law. We consider their principles as the fundamental basis for the socio-economic development of our nation.
Through this pledge, we invite the Gambian people to join us to put an end forever, to Militocracy and its manifestations. Hands of solidarity to all Gambians to join us create a bright prosperous and pluralistic society second to none on the continent.
THE END
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I do not oppose unity but I oppose dumb union. |
Edited by - Nyarikangbanna on 25 Feb 2007 13:13:47 |
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Santanfara
3460 Posts |
Posted - 25 Feb 2007 : 20:41:11
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| nyari ,i thank you for bringing to the bantaba the udp's manifesto. i never read it ,because i though they did not put any together. it is good for us to clarify the different political parties stand point and how they all square up . this manifesto seems good enough . |
Surah- Ar-Rum 30-22
"And among His signs is the creation of heavens and the earth, and the difference of your languages and colours. verily, in that are indeed signs for men of sound knowledge." Qu'ran
www.suntoumana.blogspot.com |
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Santanfara
3460 Posts |
Posted - 25 Feb 2007 : 20:41:11
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| nyari ,i thank you for bringing to the bantaba the udp's manifesto. i never read it ,because i though they did not put any together. it is good for us to clarify the different political parties stand point and how they all square up . this manifesto seems good enough . |
Surah- Ar-Rum 30-22
"And among His signs is the creation of heavens and the earth, and the difference of your languages and colours. verily, in that are indeed signs for men of sound knowledge." Qu'ran
www.suntoumana.blogspot.com |
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Bronx
USA
159 Posts |
Posted - 26 Feb 2007 : 04:33:52
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Shaka wrote:
Bronx if you try attempting a postmortem of the NADD MOU at this point in time, i swear am going to frigging scream.
Shaka, if you can't comprehend what I wrote then, I can't freaking help you. Scream to your hearts content. Go back and read the doggone thing and show me where I attempt to do what you alleged. I was cautioning you that a few people in fact criticize elements of the MOU during its heyday and Ebou Jallow happens to be a name I mentioned. Yes he might be scum but some of his observation in regards to MOU came true. So to say that nobody criticize the MOU when it counted is hooey.
Call me a fool dear smart Shaka. You are the smartest amongst us...there are you happy smarty pants? |
Edited by - Bronx on 26 Feb 2007 04:35:42 |
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Bronx
USA
159 Posts |
Posted - 26 Feb 2007 : 04:33:52
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Shaka wrote:
Bronx if you try attempting a postmortem of the NADD MOU at this point in time, i swear am going to frigging scream.
Shaka, if you can't comprehend what I wrote then, I can't freaking help you. Scream to your hearts content. Go back and read the doggone thing and show me where I attempt to do what you alleged. I was cautioning you that a few people in fact criticize elements of the MOU during its heyday and Ebou Jallow happens to be a name I mentioned. Yes he might be scum but some of his observation in regards to MOU came true. So to say that nobody criticize the MOU when it counted is hooey.
Call me a fool dear smart Shaka. You are the smartest amongst us...there are you happy smarty pants? |
Edited by - Bronx on 26 Feb 2007 04:35:42 |
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Santanfara
3460 Posts |
Posted - 26 Feb 2007 : 07:54:03
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quote:
Originally posted by Bronx
Shaka wrote:
Bronx if you try attempting a postmortem of the NADD MOU at this point in time, i swear am going to frigging scream.
Shaka, if you can't comprehend what I wrote then, I can't freaking help you. Scream to your hearts content. Go back and read the doggone thing and show me where I attempt to do what you alleged. I was cautioning you that a few people in fact criticize elements of the MOU during its heyday and Ebou Jallow happens to be a name I mentioned. Yes he might be scum but some of his observation in regards to MOU came true. So to say that nobody criticize the MOU when it counted is hooey.
Call me a fool dear smart Shaka. You are the smartest amongst us...there are you happy smarty pants?
bronx ,shaka most have misread your postings but please don't let him scream .he is your brother in the struggle ,do you know it is medically not good to express anger. so bro shaka calm down. take a deep breath and slowly release the carbondioxide .peace . |
Surah- Ar-Rum 30-22
"And among His signs is the creation of heavens and the earth, and the difference of your languages and colours. verily, in that are indeed signs for men of sound knowledge." Qu'ran
www.suntoumana.blogspot.com |
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Santanfara
3460 Posts |
Posted - 26 Feb 2007 : 07:54:03
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quote:
Originally posted by Bronx
Shaka wrote:
Bronx if you try attempting a postmortem of the NADD MOU at this point in time, i swear am going to frigging scream.
Shaka, if you can't comprehend what I wrote then, I can't freaking help you. Scream to your hearts content. Go back and read the doggone thing and show me where I attempt to do what you alleged. I was cautioning you that a few people in fact criticize elements of the MOU during its heyday and Ebou Jallow happens to be a name I mentioned. Yes he might be scum but some of his observation in regards to MOU came true. So to say that nobody criticize the MOU when it counted is hooey.
Call me a fool dear smart Shaka. You are the smartest amongst us...there are you happy smarty pants?
bronx ,shaka most have misread your postings but please don't let him scream .he is your brother in the struggle ,do you know it is medically not good to express anger. so bro shaka calm down. take a deep breath and slowly release the carbondioxide .peace . |
Surah- Ar-Rum 30-22
"And among His signs is the creation of heavens and the earth, and the difference of your languages and colours. verily, in that are indeed signs for men of sound knowledge." Qu'ran
www.suntoumana.blogspot.com |
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shaka
996 Posts |
Posted - 27 Feb 2007 : 00:15:29
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Gosh!! I thought took my chill pills regularly but it seens like someone needs it more than i do. Bronx i did not misunderstand you a bit and had never alledged anything of the sort you are acusing me of. Maybe i should as well start applying the new bantaba tune of "simple is good" for better comprehension. I believe i am quoted as saying "if..." and i repeat "if..." To put it in a language you might probably unerstand; i meant if your intention is to attempt a post-mortem of the NADD MOU then i would be very dissapointed in you. COMPRENDE!! So if the cap fits your intentions then wear it brother. No qualms from this side of the monitor screen. You must be digging too much into my emotions. It only make you sound like a monster. It doesn't suit you at all. Santafara thanks for your advice. Shaka is throws less spears now a days. I am not easily provoked anymore but mind you am still emotionally charged. Working on that one too.quote:
Originally posted by SANTANFARA
quote:
Originally posted by Bronx
Shaka wrote:
Bronx if you try attempting a postmortem of the NADD MOU at this point in time, i swear am going to frigging scream.
Shaka, if you can't comprehend what I wrote then, I can't freaking help you. Scream to your hearts content. Go back and read the doggone thing and show me where I attempt to do what you alleged. I was cautioning you that a few people in fact criticize elements of the MOU during its heyday and Ebou Jallow happens to be a name I mentioned. Yes he might be scum but some of his observation in regards to MOU came true. So to say that nobody criticize the MOU when it counted is hooey.
Call me a fool dear smart Shaka. You are the smartest amongst us...there are you happy smarty pants?
bronx ,shaka most have misread your postings but please don't let him scream .he is your brother in the struggle ,do you know it is medically not good to express anger. so bro shaka calm down. take a deep breath and slowly release the carbondioxide .peace .
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shaka
996 Posts |
Posted - 27 Feb 2007 : 00:15:29
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Gosh!! I thought took my chill pills regularly but it seens like someone needs it more than i do. Bronx i did not misunderstand you a bit and had never alledged anything of the sort you are acusing me of. Maybe i should as well start applying the new bantaba tune of "simple is good" for better comprehension. I believe i am quoted as saying "if..." and i repeat "if..." To put it in a language you might probably unerstand; i meant if your intention is to attempt a post-mortem of the NADD MOU then i would be very dissapointed in you. COMPRENDE!! So if the cap fits your intentions then wear it brother. No qualms from this side of the monitor screen. You must be digging too much into my emotions. It only make you sound like a monster. It doesn't suit you at all. Santafara thanks for your advice. Shaka is throws less spears now a days. I am not easily provoked anymore but mind you am still emotionally charged. Working on that one too.quote:
Originally posted by SANTANFARA
quote:
Originally posted by Bronx
Shaka wrote:
Bronx if you try attempting a postmortem of the NADD MOU at this point in time, i swear am going to frigging scream.
Shaka, if you can't comprehend what I wrote then, I can't freaking help you. Scream to your hearts content. Go back and read the doggone thing and show me where I attempt to do what you alleged. I was cautioning you that a few people in fact criticize elements of the MOU during its heyday and Ebou Jallow happens to be a name I mentioned. Yes he might be scum but some of his observation in regards to MOU came true. So to say that nobody criticize the MOU when it counted is hooey.
Call me a fool dear smart Shaka. You are the smartest amongst us...there are you happy smarty pants?
bronx ,shaka most have misread your postings but please don't let him scream .he is your brother in the struggle ,do you know it is medically not good to express anger. so bro shaka calm down. take a deep breath and slowly release the carbondioxide .peace .
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shaka
996 Posts |
Posted - 27 Feb 2007 : 00:46:01
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Baldeh, let the loud mouths dribble. Like you said you will never hear them when it matters. When you do hear them it is always way off the ball, fuelled by stupid bigotry from embiciles like Mathew Jallow. KEN DU NU SONNALquote:
Originally posted by dbaldeh
Shaka, am in complete agreement with you. Many of these so called born again critics were busy discrediting anything good about the MOU in favor of their hidden political agendas. No one had ever said the MOU was a perfect document. All those who signed it had the opportunity to amend anything on that but as you said they choose to play the wait and see game.
It was obvious that many of them were there one foot in and another out. It is where the dishonesty and betrayal come from. I absolutely have no respect for those people who criticise STGDP and the NADD MOU WITHOUT offering any alternative to what was on the table..............
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shaka
996 Posts |
Posted - 27 Feb 2007 : 00:46:01
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Baldeh, let the loud mouths dribble. Like you said you will never hear them when it matters. When you do hear them it is always way off the ball, fuelled by stupid bigotry from embiciles like Mathew Jallow. KEN DU NU SONNALquote:
Originally posted by dbaldeh
Shaka, am in complete agreement with you. Many of these so called born again critics were busy discrediting anything good about the MOU in favor of their hidden political agendas. No one had ever said the MOU was a perfect document. All those who signed it had the opportunity to amend anything on that but as you said they choose to play the wait and see game.
It was obvious that many of them were there one foot in and another out. It is where the dishonesty and betrayal come from. I absolutely have no respect for those people who criticise STGDP and the NADD MOU WITHOUT offering any alternative to what was on the table..............
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dbaldeh
USA
934 Posts |
Posted - 27 Feb 2007 : 17:08:26
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quote:
Originally posted by shaka
Baldeh, let the loud mouths dribble. Like you said you will never hear them when it matters. When you do hear them it is always way off the ball, fuelled by stupid bigotry from embiciles like Mathew Jallow. KEN DU NU SONNALquote:
Originally posted by dbaldeh
Shaka, am in complete agreement with you. Many of these so called born again critics were busy discrediting anything good about the MOU in favor of their hidden political agendas. No one had ever said the MOU was a perfect document. All those who signed it had the opportunity to amend anything on that but as you said they choose to play the wait and see game.
It was obvious that many of them were there one foot in and another out. It is where the dishonesty and betrayal come from. I absolutely have no respect for those people who criticise STGDP and the NADD MOU WITHOUT offering any alternative to what was on the table..............
Shaka, don't loose a sleep over their crying foul. Once a pessimist always a pessimist. People like Mathew feed out of controversy and anywhere that is absent they can't survive. If ever you want to complicate an issue engage brother Mathew. He is Mr. Controversy and no solution. If you want a solution please distant yourself from his likes.
It is unfortunate that Education does not mean a lot for some people. The brain is too important to be wasted and that is what we have in some people. As you said there is nothing they can do to distract us from the ultimate goal of bringing change to our dear Gambia. They fail and want to drag all into such mess. "KEN DU NU SONNAL" |
Baldeh,
"Be the change you want to see in the world" Ghandi
Visit http://www.gainako.com for your daily news and politics |
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dbaldeh
USA
934 Posts |
Posted - 27 Feb 2007 : 17:08:26
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quote:
Originally posted by shaka
Baldeh, let the loud mouths dribble. Like you said you will never hear them when it matters. When you do hear them it is always way off the ball, fuelled by stupid bigotry from embiciles like Mathew Jallow. KEN DU NU SONNALquote:
Originally posted by dbaldeh
Shaka, am in complete agreement with you. Many of these so called born again critics were busy discrediting anything good about the MOU in favor of their hidden political agendas. No one had ever said the MOU was a perfect document. All those who signed it had the opportunity to amend anything on that but as you said they choose to play the wait and see game.
It was obvious that many of them were there one foot in and another out. It is where the dishonesty and betrayal come from. I absolutely have no respect for those people who criticise STGDP and the NADD MOU WITHOUT offering any alternative to what was on the table..............
Shaka, don't loose a sleep over their crying foul. Once a pessimist always a pessimist. People like Mathew feed out of controversy and anywhere that is absent they can't survive. If ever you want to complicate an issue engage brother Mathew. He is Mr. Controversy and no solution. If you want a solution please distant yourself from his likes.
It is unfortunate that Education does not mean a lot for some people. The brain is too important to be wasted and that is what we have in some people. As you said there is nothing they can do to distract us from the ultimate goal of bringing change to our dear Gambia. They fail and want to drag all into such mess. "KEN DU NU SONNAL" |
Baldeh,
"Be the change you want to see in the world" Ghandi
Visit http://www.gainako.com for your daily news and politics |
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