United Democratic Party (UDP) leader and presidential aspirant, Lawyer Ousainou ANM Darboe, has pledged sweeping reforms aimed at reducing government expenditure if elected President of The Gambia.
Speaking on Coffee Time with Peter Gomez on West Coast Radio, the veteran politician described current ministerial pay packages as “too high” and out of touch with the country’s economic realities. He vowed to slash salaries for cabinet ministers as part of a broader plan to instill fiscal discipline.
Darboe also outlined proposals to restructure government ministries, suggesting that some be downgraded into directorates under larger ministries. He cited the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education as an example, arguing that such a move would streamline operations and cut costs.
“These reforms are necessary to cut waste and redirect resources to areas that directly benefit Gambians,” Darboe said, emphasizing that a leaner government would improve efficiency and accountability.
His remarks come amid growing public debate over the size of government and the cost of governance. Supporters view the proposals as a step toward prudent financial management, while critics warn that merging ministries could undermine focus on critical sectors such as education.
Darboe’s message forms part of his wider campaign agenda, which centers on institutional reform and responsible economic stewardship
