The Gambia needs light now, and I am ready to lead the solution – Prince Ebrahim Sanyang

Across the Gambia, spontaneous candlelight protests have erupted, demanding answers to the country's persistent electricity crisis. In a statement, Prince Ebrahim Sanyang, founder and party leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in The Gambia, has come forward to address the issue. Sanyang emphasizes his commitment to resolving the energy challenges faced by Gambians, stating that their demand for light is both legitimate and urgent.

Sanyang argues that the current electricity situation is far beyond a mere operational issue at NAWEC, the national power utility. He asserts that it has evolved into a crisis impacting national productivity, public confidence, economic security, and leadership. He warns that merely restoring power temporarily after protests does not solve the underlying systemic problems.

According to Sanyang, NAWEC's institutional weaknesses and the absence of sustainable generation, transmission, and management capacity have serious economic and political consequences. He asserts that the current demonstrations confirm the need for immediate action, which he claims he has the experience and international relationships to provide.

He points to his role in facilitating high-level diplomatic and commercial engagements with TBEA, a global electricity transmission company, and Chinese stakeholders, resulting in significant contracts for Gambia's electricity infrastructure.

Sanyang emphasizes his readiness to work immediately with President Barrow, the Ministry of Petroleum and Energy, NAWEC, PURA, development partners, and independent energy specialists to formulate a credible emergency electricity-stabilisation programme. He promises to help deliver permanent solutions within four weeks, stating that no one should have to wait until election day for him to contribute.