The game of political muscle flexing is just as prevalent in the 14 wards of the Central River Region as the Local Government elections campaign progresses. There the APRC National Mobiliser, Yankuba Touray, addressed hundreds of party supporters at Katamina and Sololo Mandinka on Thursday, January 17. He reiterated the need for them to be steadfast and strengthen their support for the APRC party. He spoke at length on the achievements of President Jammeh for the past years, pointing out that the country has registered remarkable development under the leadership of President Jammeh. On account of this, he went on, voting for his councillors means voting for development.

Mr Touray described the two candidates, Amie Ceesay of Bansang ward, and Amadou Sowe of Katamina ward, as hardworking.

At Katamina Touray harped on the phenomenon of independent candidates, noting that they are not and will not be recognised by the APRC party.

The Secretary of State for Higher Education, Science and Technology, Mr Abdoulie Sallah, called on the people of the wards to come out in large numbers and vote during the elections. He further highlighted the important role councillors play in the socio-economic development of the nation, noting that the councils are responsible for providing clean drinking water, awarding scholarships to needy students, among a host of other social services. He urged the people to vote massively for all the APRC-sponsored candidates.

The APRC Desk Officer and NAM for Upper Saloum, Hon. Sainey Mbye, emphasised the need for participation of the electorate to vote on Jan 24. He reiterated that all the councils play crucial roles in providing social amenities to our societies.