By Lamin Kujabi
Rohey John Manjang, Governor of Lower River Region in an interview with Gambia Daily said the people of Mansakonko are grateful to God for giving them a government that has the foresight to revive the village once again. She recounted that Mansakonko used to be a vibrant settlement.
“The settlement used to be full of life, but it is almost dead now. We are grateful that the government is thinking of riving it,’’ she stated.
She went on to say that the government cannot call people to go back when their lives are not motivated enough. She however thanked President Barrow for making sure that all the relevant sectors, irrespective of where they are, give them the due they deserve.
The governor also explained that the Pakaliding-Mansakonko and Mansakonko- Jarra Soma roads are being constructed and connected to Senegambia bridge road leading to Jarra Soma by Gai Construction Company. She also made mention of the Kiang road, which she said is first of its kind because Kiang has never had a tar road since the colonial times.
“What was happening before was not as a result of lack of motivation, intention or love for country. People of Kiang were paying tax but commitment was lacking. We are seeing that commitment in the current government,’’ she said.
When ask about some of the buildings that are going under renovation, she said the relocation and renovation of offices in Mansakoko was generally due to the environment and governance which are now very conducive. She noted that the departments and offices should join the competition when it comes to delivering.
Governor Manjang revealed that she received a lot of application from offices who want to be relocated in Mansakoko. She said they might have left because there was no sprit of good governance and conducive working environment.
Asked what message she has for Gambians for the upcoming parliamentary election, the governor said she is calling on Gambians to vote for a choice that will earn them development.
“Though we are not saying that 100% National Assembly members should be NPP, that may not give us a productive decision making. But at least, we need a good number that will support the president’s agenda,’’ she said.
She advised that when given an office, one should always put the interest of the people first. She said they are Gambians first before they are politicians. She also encouraged the media to work in a way that will help maintain peace and stability in the country.