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Momodou Sabally: ‘It is now clear that I am the number one target of this government’

Hadram Hydara
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Momodou Sabally: ‘It is now clear that I am the number one target of this government’

By: Alieu Jallow

United Democratic Party campaign manager, Momodou Sabally, who was invited for questioning and later detained by the police at the Kairaba Police station last week in connection with a Facebook post he made preceding the fatal shooting of two police officers on September 12, has said he is the number 1 target of the Barrow government.

Sabally, who is currently charged with ‘threatening of a public servant’ and granted a D100,000 bail bond on Tuesday, said after being the subject of a similar arrest last December when the police invited him for questioning in connection with an alleged coup, the same institution on Friday detained him and linked him to the fatal shooting of two police officers.

“Just like their botched attempt 9 months ago, the police have failed once again in their attempt to link me to a crime that I can never be associated with in my life,” Sabally said.

He further alleged: “It is now clear that I am the number one target of this government that is doing everything it can to either silence me or send me into exile”.

Meanwhile, he denied police charges and promised to fight in court.

“They have decided to charge me with the offence of “threatening a public officer”. I have denied the charges and will vehemently defend myself in any court of law,” he said.

The United Democratic Party campaign manager emphasized that he would continue to be a critic of the government until things change for the better.

“I remain a vociferous opponent of this government and will remain so until we bring about a democratic change of government in this country,” adding that his recent arrest would not deter him but “I remain focused on my mission and this arrest, and the ones planned will never cower me or distract me from this mission, inshaa Allah”.

He added: “Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds. The mediocre mind is incapable of understanding the man who refuses to bow blindly to conventional prejudices and chooses instead to express his opinions courageously and honestly”.

After 200 Arrests, 60 of the Prosecuted Nigeria Gay Wedding Suspects Granted Bail, Says Lawyer

Seringe Touray
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After 200 Arrests, 60 of the Prosecuted Nigeria Gay Wedding Suspects Granted Bail, Says Lawyer

By: Sainabou Gassama

On Monday, August 28, 2023, over 200 individuals were arrested at an alleged gay wedding celebration in Nigeria’s Southern Delta State. Among them, sixty-nine have been prosecuted for their alleged involvement in conducting and attending a same-sex wedding ceremony. This incident marks one of the largest mass arrests in recent years targeting the LGBTQ community in Nigeria.

Similar to many other African countries, same-sex relationships are criminalized in Nigeria. The penal code of the country stipulates lengthy prison sentences of up to 10 to 14 years for those convicted of witnessing or entering into same-sex civil unions.

Ochuko Ohimor, legal counsel for the 69 suspects, confirmed to CNN after a bail hearing on Tuesday that a Nigerian court has granted bail to over 60 individuals who were detained during a police raid at the suspected gay wedding. They are expected to be released this week upon meeting their bail conditions.

“They have been officially granted bail by the court under reasonable terms,” he stated. “All of them should be out this week. They need a surety who can demonstrate their income and must be a resident within the judicial division. The surety should have an annual income of at least one million naira ($1,290),” he added.

Ohimor explained that the suspects, ranging in age from 16 to 40 years, were not present in court during the bail hearing. He further noted that the court would reconvene at a later date for additional hearings on the matter. “Their bail request was granted by the Delta State High Court,” he affirmed.

A police official characterized the alleged gay wedding as “evil” and emphasized that Nigeria should not emulate the Western world. “We are Nigerians, and we must uphold our country’s culture,” the official stressed.

However, Ohimor told CNN that he has faced “serious criticism” for defending the suspects. “I have been subjected to scandalous accusations,” he added. “Some claim I’m a gay lawyer, which is why I’m defending them. People look at me with disgust for standing up for them,” he asserted.

SPOTLIGHT: 19-year-old Kumba breaks school’s 28-year search for 9 credits in WASSCE

Hadram Hydara
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SPOTLIGHT: 19-year-old Kumba breaks school’s 28-year search for 9 credits in WASSCE

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

Despite helping her single mother on the farm, studying in the dark without electricity, and walking 2 kilometres to school, 19-year-old Kumba Sowe from Simbara Khai Village in the Central River Region has become the first student in Kaur Senior Secondary School’s history to achieve at least a credit in all subjects in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). This year, Kumba achieved nine credits, including 3As and 4Bs, which ended the school’s 28-year search for such achievement since its establishment in 1995.

Kumba resides in the agricultural community of Simbara Khai in the northern region of the Central River Area. Her village is not equipped with electricity. Sadly, Kumba’s father passed away when she was in fourth grade, and her mother, Batorr Faal, has been raising her and her siblings as a single parent ever since.

According to her mother, taking care of the family has been challenging since her husband’s passing. Despite the difficulties, Batorr Faal is grateful and optimistic about her daughter’s future.

Kumba, whose result will remain in the annals of the school’s history for being the first student to graduate with nine credits in an external examination, said she laboured so hard for this grade, juggling her house chores, helping her mother on the farm, to reading her books at night using candles and walking for two kilometres to school.

“As the only daughter living with my mother at Simbara Khai, I had to allocate time for the house chores and reading my books, doing my assignments and solving questions using past papers. It was not easy for me as a girl, travelling two kilometres to and fro school daily. I knew I needed to read and read,” Kumba told The Fatu Network.

The 19-year-old acknowledged the efforts of the school and its staff for playing a key role in helping her score nine credits.

“The kind of learning at Kaur Senior Secondary School also prepared us a great deal. Imagine, we had extension classes from 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. We had Saturday classes and night classes as well. All for free! No payment!

“The attention we received from the principal and teacher was spectacular. Kaur SSS has the most hardworking teachers you can ever find. We owe the school a lot. The school provided me with all the learning materials required to these impressive results. Without those learning materials, it would not have been this impressive. I thank the principal for everything,” she said.

With this magnificent result, Kumba said she would like to go to the University of the Gambia to pursue a degree in Nursing. Her dream is to make her mother proud, who has been supportive of her as a village girl pursuing her dream.

Mr. Amet Jeng Sey, the Principal of Kaur Senior Secondary School, attributed the school’s achievement of nine credits for the first time in its history to the hard work and dedication of the school’s teachers.

“This is an achievement borne out of hard work and dedication from my young and indefatigable teachers and brilliant students. This has always been my dream. With an established administration and teaching staff in the school, more such results will be seen. This is the result of concerted efforts,” the principal said.

Kaur Senior Secondary School is located approximately 147 kilometres away from Banjul. The school admits students who did not perform well in WEAC standards and helps them improve their academic performance. It is the largest senior school in CRR North.

Notable figures who graduated from Kaur Senior Secondary School include the current National Assembly Member of Lower Saloum, the Chairman of Kuntaur Area Council, the former Minority Leader (Samba Jallow, Ansumana MS Keita), the former Deputy Governor of CRR, and a current Lecturer at the Gambia College.

Africa: Rwanda’s Kagame Confirms Run for a Fourth Term After Almost 30 Years In Power

Seringe Touray
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Africa: Rwanda’s Kagame Confirms Run for a Fourth Term After Almost 30 Years In Power

By: The Fatu Network Editorial

Rwandan President Paul Kagame has publicly declared his intention to seek a fourth term in the upcoming elections, scheduled for August 2024. This announcement marks the first time Kagame has confirmed his candidacy.

In an interview with the French-language magazine Jeune Afrique, the 65-year-old president expressed his gratitude for the confidence Rwandans have placed in him, stating, “I am happy with the confidence Rwandans have shown in me. I will always serve them as long as I can. Yes, I am indeed a candidate.”

Prior to this announcement, Kagame had not openly disclosed his electoral plans, but he had orchestrated controversial constitutional amendments that permitted him to serve a third term and potentially extend his rule until 2034. Kagame, a former rebel leader, has effectively led Rwanda since the conclusion of the devastating 1994 genocide.

Having secured over 90% of the vote in the 2003, 2010, and 2017 elections, Kagame has maintained a strong grip on power. Despite Rwanda’s claim of being one of the most stable nations in Africa, human rights organizations have accused Kagame’s government of ruling by fear, suppressing dissent, and hindering freedom of expression.

NAMs controversial vehicles: ‘It is wrong’ for them to partly finance cost of vehicles — Tourism Minister says  

Hadram Hydara
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NAMs controversial vehicles: ‘It is wrong’ for them to partly finance cost of vehicles — Tourism Minister says  

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

The Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Amat Bah, has today expressed that it is not appropriate for elected National Assembly Members to have monthly deductions for the cost of the 2023 Toyota Prado Models, which are worth more than D2.5 million and were provided by the government, despite public outcry.

During his oral question and answer session with lawmakers in parliament, the tourism minister expressed his opinion on the cost of the vehicles. Despite public outcry over the economic situation of the country, he believes that lawmakers should not be responsible for contributing to the cost of the vehicles.

“I believe that it is wrong for them (NAMs) to be deducted 22 thousand dalasi every month to meet up the cost of these vehicles. This is my view and I believe it is wrong.

“It should be converted into fuel, and they should not pay a dime for these vehicles. They are doing a job. They are elected members, so it is wrong, and they should not pay a dime,” said the minister in a loud voice in the parliament.

As a former parliamentary member during Jammeh’s time, Amat pointed out that they were provided with “scrappy” vehicles. He praised the parliament’s leadership and members for acquiring appropriate transportation to fulfil their duties as representatives of the people.

When the government purchased the 2023 Toyota Prado model vehicle, it raised a public outcry because of its exorbitant cost of over 2.5 million dalasi. According to the clerk of the National Assembly, the vehicles will be financed by both the government and the National Assembly Members.

Several members of the National Assembly justified their need for such vehicles, citing that it would enhance their productivity. On the other hand, Bah believes that the funds allocated for the vehicles should be redirected to cover filing costs.

Addendum: The Gambia Government Spokesperson Sankareh on West Coast Radio Thursday, September 14

Hadram Hydara
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Addendum: The Gambia Government Spokesperson Sankareh on West Coast Radio Thursday, September 14

OPINION

By: Musa Bassadi Jawara

Addendum: I revisit below an article published on my Facebook page on September 14, in response to government spokesperson Sankareh’s West Coast Radio interview with Peter Gomez.

I deemed it necessary to add a few lines to it in light of the Inspector General of Police’s press release for taking full responsibility for government spokesperson Sankareh’s utterances. First off, let me seize this moment and extend my heartfelt condolences to IGP Sanyang, this is a difficult period for his department. IGP and his team put their lives in harm’s way for the rest of us to live in a peaceful and secure environment!

To demystify the delusions or misconceptions in IGP’s press release for taking full responsibility for Sankareh’s infamous radio interview. IGP Sanyang, it’s not the factual accuracy of Sankareh’s utterances that are at issue, but for an official of his status to be callously and in an inept fashion divulging information in an ongoing investigation, particularly in a murder case that shook the entire nation.

Sankareh’s conduct is inexcusable. Period! IGP Sanyang, I fervently believe your office must not take responsibility for this morass and sensitive information debacle. Let’s put this in the proper context: what a presidential spokesperson does in the discharge of his official functions, the highest ethical and professional standards must be applied at all times. In this sad situation, two human beings have lost their lives, and one is gravely injured. Professionalism and prudence dictate – investigations are directed to logical conclusions; the suspect made a court appearance before any information release, and so on. For the suspect to be under the employ of the Brikama Area Council, why that’s relevant to the investigation is worrisome and insinuates the culpability of political opponents. It’s despicable and reprehensible and must not be brushed under the carpet.

After sober reflections on the matter, it’s my optics that the IGP’s office press release cannot repair the damage done to the authenticity and veracity of the investigation. It’s surreptitious for a country’ Republican Institutions to be exposed to so much ineptitude and mediocrity.

There has to be accountability and redirection from National Authorities to reassure the population. The people are tired and hungry! The Gambian people must stop denigrating and excoriating one another!

Let’s put an end to the endless bickering and witch-hunt and, address poverty and insecurity of the citizenry. There is so much work to be done, folks… The Gambia is one of the poorest and, concurrently one of the most vindictive societies on the globe! In this country, our situation and living conditions are saddled with poverty, hopelessness, destitution, insecurity, hunger and illiteracy among others. If we put an end to partisan identity, we must strive to do better and instead focus on helping the Gambian people persevere through hard economic times.

We must reverse this fatalistic course and fashion out a new one with peace and prosperity for all, regardless… party affiliation. All the above must be anchored in and facilitated by the rule of law!

*****************************************************

The Gambia Government Spokesperson Sankareh
on West Coast Radio Thursday, September 14!

Friends, I’m astonished and bewildered with disbelief after listening to the interview by government Spokesperson Sankareh, on West Coast Radio with Peter Gomez. The sheer callousness and cavalier approach by the spokesperson in divulging information obtained by investigators from a murder suspect who is yet to make a court appearance is a major security bridge!

In the United States, a presidential press secretary making these kinds of revelations in an active ongoing investigation will be fired with terrible consequences. Whatever the political endgame at the Statehouse as far as this shooting incident is concerned, must be pursued with prudence and devoid of political manoeuvres. It can boomerang in a competent court of law. For American Juris Prudence, the revelations of Mr. Sankareh would have sent the prosecution’s case on live support!

Let the evidence in the case be presented in court without interference, coercion or manipulation. Evidence tampering and cover-up are deemed more serious than the crime! May God forbid after innocent young souls were mowed down tragically and one suffered terrible wounds!

Ghana Leads Among African Nations with the Highest IMF Debt

Seringe Touray
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Ghana Leads Among African Nations with the Highest IMF Debt

By: The Fatu Network Editorial

Ghana continues to hold its position as the African country with the highest level of debt to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Based on data from the IMF’s Quarterly Finances report for July 2023, Ghana’s debt to the IMF has increased by 35.55% during the specified period. This amounts to 9.55% of the total loans, equivalent to 17.68 billion Special Drawing Rights (SDRs), still owed by African nations to the IMF.

Among the top five categories of outstanding loans as of July 31, 2023, Ghana’s Special Drawing Rights (SDR) balance was $1.689 billion, surpassing the previous figure of $1.246 billion recorded as of April 30, 2023. It is worth noting that Ghana had repaid SDR 8 million to the IMF, with SDR 1 equaling US$1.34294.

As of the same date in 2023, Kenya and the Democratic Republic of the Congo held the second and third positions in terms of the largest outstanding loans to the IMF among African nations. Kenya’s debt to the IMF stood at SDR 1.008, while the Democratic Republic of the Congo owed the IMF SDR 1.142 billion.

Sudan and Uganda maintained their fourth and fifth positions with projected exposures to the IMF of SDR 992 million and SDR 812 million, respectively.

The remaining 11.32 billion SDRs were owed to the IMF by the rest of the African countries.

FSQA and Partners Validate Draft Groundnut Regulation

Seringe Touray
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FSQA and Partners Validate Draft Groundnut Regulation

By: Zackline Colley

The Food Safety Quality Authority (FSQA), along with its partners, validated the draft groundnut regulation during a day-long ceremony held at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Conference Centre in Bijilo last week.

The validation process represents one of the final stages of procedures before the draft is submitted to the cabinet for approval. Its primary aim was to substantiate the draft groundnut regulation in the country. It is worth noting that in 2014, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and the World Health Organization launched the Codex Trust Fund to support the meaningful participation of developing countries in Codex activities.

Through the Food Safety and Quality Authority, The Gambia was awarded the Codex Trust Fund to, among other things, develop regulations for food commodities of national interest. Consequently, the Authority initiated the development process of a groundnut regulation using a multi-stakeholder approach.

Following a consultative and procedural process, the draft regulation has undergone all necessary reviews and amendments, informed by contributions and comments from various national and international stakeholders.

During the validation event, Mamudou Bah, Director-General of the FSQA, emphasized that groundnut is one of the most important cash crops in The Gambia. He noted that it has been a major source of foreign exchange for the country.

He stated, “If you consider the consumption of commodities in the country, groundnut happens to be the second-largest consumed product in The Gambia due to its incorporation into numerous recipes and dishes. We have made it a proudly Gambian dish known as ‘domoda,’ which we enjoy most of the time. Groundnut is a common ingredient in many of our recipes.”

Bah further highlighted that groundnut is one of the highest-risk commodities when it comes to food safety due to its mycotoxin content, which can be found throughout the groundnut value chain, especially during storage, leading to mycotoxin contamination. This contamination can, in many cases, result in liver cirrhosis.

Dr. Mustapha Ceesay, the country representative of the Food & Agriculture Organization (FAO) in The Gambia, recalled that FAO had been working with FSQA since 2010 to enhance the groundnut value chain. This collaboration was facilitated by a project between FAO and the African Union, with FSQA being chosen by the government to lead the effort to enhance the groundnut value chain.

Dr. Ceesay stated, “Historically, The Gambia has strong ties to the groundnut value chain. In the past, we faced challenges related to aflatoxin contamination in Gambian groundnuts, preventing both The Gambia and other African countries from meeting EU regulations and exporting groundnuts to EU markets.”

He further explained that if The Gambia cannot sell groundnuts at premium prices, its foreign exchange earning capacity will significantly decline. To address this issue, FSQA is introducing this regulation as a guiding document to set standards at the producer level, ensuring that the groundnuts produced meet the required quality standards.

WASSCE 2023 Results: 316 More Candidates Meet University Entry Requirements Compared to Last Year

Seringe Touray
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WASSCE 2023 Results: 316 More Candidates Meet University Entry Requirements Compared to Last Year

By: Dawda Baldeh

The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (MoBSE) has officially released the 2023 West Africa Senior Secondary School Certificate (WASSCE) Grade 12 results, revealing that an addition of 316 candidates who sat for the exam have met the university entry requirements compared to last year.

The Ministry issued this announcement through a press release obtained by our medium on September 18, 2023.

These results signify a significant milestone in the academic journey of the students, as highlighted by the ministry.

According to the press release, a total of 17,201 candidates registered for the 2023 WASSCE, with 16,405 candidates taking at least one subject. Among these, there were 60% female candidates and 40% male candidates.

The MoBSE stated, “This year’s results have demonstrated an improvement in the number of candidates achieving 5 credits or more, which meet the university entry requirements, with a slight increase of 316 candidates compared to last year’s results.”

“Across the nation, girls continue to excel academically, representing 60% of the total 16,405 candidates who sat for the exam. Among the candidates who achieved 5 credits or more, 53% are girls. This achievement underscores another significant advancement in the education of the girl child.”

The MoBSE also reported an increase of 110 students with credit in mathematics compared to the 2022 results. They commented, “This upward trajectory highlights the dedication and potential of our students in this crucial subject, although there is still room for improvement.”

However, the MoBSE raised concerns about the weak performance of candidates in the English language. “This trend has persisted over the past three years, both in terms of credit and pass rates. The MoBSE is committed to addressing this issue by enhancing the proficiency of our students in the English language,” the press release concluded.

NA adopts FPAC resolutions on govt parastatals, local councils

Hadram Hydara
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NA adopts FPAC resolutions on govt parastatals, local councils

By: Alieu Jallow

The National Assembly of the Gambia on Monday, September 18, adopted the resolutions for the 2019 audited accounts of government agencies and local councils.

The committee followed the guidelines outlined in the 1997 Constitution of Public Finance Act 2014 and Finance Regulations 2016. They decided to compile a comprehensive list of fraudulent cases from all government institutions, including the Accountant General’s Office, Auditor General’s Office, Inspector General of Police, and judiciary. This list should include names, amounts, dates, and current status. If the Inspector General of Police does not launch an investigation immediately, they must report back to the FPAC. Additionally, the committee stated that the Accountant General must reconcile all unreconciled government transactions from the 2019 audited accounts before the end of the financial year 2023. If they do not, the Permanent Secretary and Minister of Finance must punish those responsible.

The committee also demanded answers regarding the Banjul roads and drainage projects that caused public outrage when many homes flooded, leading to thousands being internally displaced. The Secretary General of the President must provide a written explanation to the FPAC about accepting the Banjul drainage, roads, and sewages contract and evidence that GAI enterprise is the most suitable and qualified to carry out this project by September 28, 2023.

According to the BBC, The Gambia imported over 300,000 tonnes of timber to China between 2017 and 2020. To combat illegal logging, The Gambia banned timber exports and revoked export licenses. Port authorities were instructed to refuse to load timber logs onto any vessels, leading to the confiscation of tonnes of timber at the border and ports.

During the presentation of the resolutions, the Chair of the Finance and Public Accounts Committee (FPAC), Hon. Alagie S Darboe, emphasized that the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment must provide all agreements with the government of Senegal relating to forfeited timber seized on Gambian soil and all payments made from the proceeds. This must be done before September 28, 2023, and provided to the auditors, Auditor General, and FPAC.

“The Permanent Secretary, Minister of Environment must provide to the auditors and FPAC the authority to spend the funds generated from the sales of confiscated timber on or before 2023,” said Darboe.

The committee examined the local councils and determined that the select committee for regional government should visit the Brikama Area Council no later than October 2023 to investigate concerns regarding the new BAC office building.

Additionally, the committee strongly urged the CEO of the Janjabureheh Area Council to promptly produce any outstanding vouchers by September 28, 2012.

“The failure of with the equivalent amount to be deposited into the account of the gang member Area Council for the inspector general must launch an investigation immediately and report to the FPAC within 90 days”.

The six legislatures are on course to recover missing public funds and regulate the government parastatals and local councils to avoid further financial mismanagement.

Online Risk Mitigation: Paradise Foundation Trains Students in Digital Safety

Seringe Touray
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Online Risk Mitigation: Paradise Foundation Trains Students in Digital Safety

By: Dawda Baldeh

In their ongoing efforts to address the growing concerns faced by young people in the digital world, on Friday, September 15th, the Paradise Foundation conducted a comprehensive training session on digital safety for a significant number of students.

This training took place at a local hotel in Senegambia, and was implemented in collaboration with SHOAW and the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (MoBSE), with support from UNICEF.

The primary objective of this initiative is to empower participants with the knowledge and tools necessary to effectively recognize, respond to, and prevent technology-facilitated gender-based violence.

Aisha Baldeh, the Executive Director of the Paradise Foundation, emphasized the critical importance of this training and urged participants to share the knowledge they acquired with their peers, colleagues, and family members, among others, to promote digital safety.

She emphasized, “You must learn how to use the internet productively to avoid harming yourself or others. Once you share something on the internet, you have no control over it, so you must be discerning about what you choose to share.”

Alieu Bah, the Program Manager of Stop Harassment and Online Abuse of Women & Girls (SHOAW), highlighted that the internet can be both a force for good and a source of harm. This underscores the need for everyone to be aware of the potential negative impact it can have.

He pointed out, “Content sharing is crucial, and individuals should critically analyze their content before sharing it. Many people use the internet without realizing that it can harm them, perhaps not immediately, but in the long run. Even though people have the right to share things online, they should also be responsible for mitigating harm.”

Experts note that cyberbullying is the most prevalent form of online violence, encompassing activities like sending, posting, and sharing negative, harmful, false, or mean content about someone to cause embarrassment or humiliation.

Isatou Dea Sawaneh cautioned, “You need to exercise extreme caution in how you use the internet because whatever you post will remain there indefinitely. The things you share today may have a significant negative impact on you tomorrow.”

Several other speakers encouraged the participants to make the most of this training, as some of them may hold presidential or high leadership positions in the future. Awa Saho, a representative from the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, commended the Paradise Foundation for their initiative and encouraged the participants to utilize the internet for educational purposes.

Ida Barrow, a participant, conveyed gratitude on behalf of her colleagues and expressed unwavering optimism that the training was both timely and beneficial. She urged her fellow attendees to leverage this training to protect themselves from cyberbullying effectively.

Determined to Change the Fishing Status Quo: Sheriff Gibba Risks Losing His Investment in a Fishing Boat Unless…

Seringe Touray
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Determined to Change the Fishing Status Quo: Sheriff Gibba Risks Losing His Investment in a Fishing Boat Unless…

By: Zackline Colley

Sheriff Gibba, a resident of Kanifing South, is determined to address the challenges faced by young fishermen due to the lack of Gambian fishing boats operating in the sea. However, he is now at risk of losing his investment in a fishing boat construction project unless urgent support is provided.

Gibba, who aims to change the status quo by providing his younger brother, a fisherman, with a fishing boat to alleviate constant fish scarcity in the local market, is pleading for immediate assistance to complete the boat’s construction, which is in its final stages.

In an interview with The Fatu Network, Gibba explained that his younger brother had requested a fishing boat, and due to his own financial limitations, he had taken out a loan to initiate the boat’s construction. He said, “I took a loan from the Gambia Credit Union to help build a fishing boat for my younger brother, enabling him to earn a living and support the family.”

Receipts of purchased materials for the boat, obtained by The Fatu Network, indicate that Gibba has already spent a total of D109,750 (one hundred and nine thousand, seven hundred and fifty dalasi).

However, he couldn’t complete the construction as his mother fell ill, and he had no choice but to use his funds to cover her medical expenses, which left him financially drained.

Gibba mentioned that he had exhausted his savings after paying for his mother’s medical bills, which eventually impacted the progress of the boat construction. The situation has left him with no alternative but to openly seek support to complete the boat.

Despite the challenges, Gibba remains optimistic that with the necessary support, he will be able to finish the boat’s construction and provide it to his younger brother, who is passionate about fishing. He revealed that over the past seven months, he has tried every possible means to complete the boat’s construction, including reaching out to various philanthropists, GSM operators, and the Ministry of Youth and Sports, but without success.

For those interested in supporting Gibba, you can contact him at ‪+220 661 6445.

OPINION: The Gambia Habeas Corpus

Hadram Hydara
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OPINION: The Gambia Habeas Corpus

OPINION

By: Musa Bassadi Jawara

The terrible events of last week are now morphed into rumors, fabrications and even lies on social media. It’s regrettable and lamentable to note that lives have been lost and terrible maiming of a person occurred. Given this proviso, authorities in charge of the investigation must move with dispatch and uphold the constitutional requirement of habeas corpus and bring the murder suspect before a judge. The 1997 constitution time – mandate is 72 hours and come what may …. this should be observed and adhered to without delay!

The argument regarding evidence collection and relentless investigation disregarding the dictates and printed letters of the constitution are acerbic to the rule of law.

When a murder suspect confessed to a crime, preponderance of evidence or paucity of evidence is superfluous! What’s of paramount significance is the application of justice under law.

In the Sukuta Traffic Light shooting case, court proceedings must commence in earnest. This should put an end to social media’s wild conspiracy theories and deliver justice fairly and expeditiously. Let’s remember: “justice delayed is justice denied”!

I hope the police & judicial authorities of The Gambia 🇬🇲 take note of the above passages seriously and take action without delay!

PRESS RELEASE: GFA expresses concern at the implications of statements made by the government spokesperson on the recent tragic killing and wounding of PIU Security personnel. 

Hadram Hydara
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PRESS RELEASE: GFA expresses concern at the implications of statements made by the government spokesperson on the recent tragic killing and wounding of PIU Security personnel. 

PRESS RELEASE:

Gambians are very good at confusing people”, Ebrima G.Sankareh, Gambia Government Spokesperson on Coffee-time with Peter Gomez on 14/Sept/23.

This could be the most consequential false statement coming from a government official, no less a Cabinet-ranking Government Spokesperson, in relation to one of the most heinous crimes perpetrated against Gambian security forces.

The Gambia For All (GFA) party regards the incident of 12th September, which resulted in the death and injury of PIU officers, as an extremely serious matter affecting our collective sense of security, and a threat to our national security. GFA and the Gambian public expect the authorities to handle this matter professionally, fairly, maturely, and in accordance with the laws of the country. The stakes couldn’t be higher.

However, the reaction of the authorities so far has been anything but reassuring. Regrettably, before the official police briefing, the government Spokesperson went on the radio waves to proffer a narrative of the tragedy that is very much at variance with the limited information provided by the security authorities. In this regard, one is inclined to draw the conclusion that the government Spokesperson’s description of the tragic shootings could be labelled as misinformation if not outright fabrication. The government spokesperson may be subconsciously referring to himself in his description of the Gambian character. It is demeaning for a senior government official to refer to citizens of your own country in such a derogatory manner. He must apologize and retract the statement.

 

The government spokesperson’s self-interjection into the case, describing in detail the profile, profession, and potential accomplices of the alleged perpetrator, should be a matter of great concern to all citizens and for the rule of law in our country. After all, the laws of our country assume that we are all presumed innocent until proven guilty. If the accused individual is found to be the culprit, he should face the full force of the law. The responsible thing to do is to allow the security services to thoroughly investigate the matter and let justice take its course.

The Gambia for All party has always expressed concern about competency or the lack thereof, in the current administration. In this case of the government spokesperson, we are not surprised by the debacle, but the fact that he does not consider his position as now unattainable is a worrying sign of a lack of accountability in the current administration.

Long Live The Gambia.

GFA Communications

Ma-Jonka House.

Kanifinfg. 18/9/2023

GAP Leader Calls for Unity, Justice, and a Safer Gambia

Seringe Touray
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GAP Leader Calls for Unity, Justice, and a Safer Gambia

By: Zackline Colley

The Secretary General of the Gambia Action Party (GAP), Musa Yalli Batchilly, has called for a safer Gambia characterized by unity and justice.

In a statement shared with the Fatu network, the politician expressed his condolences for the tragic loss of two police officers who lost their lives after being shot on the Sukuta Jabang highway. He also shared his views on what he referred to as the promotion of hatred and violence towards officers in uniform.

“In these heart-wrenching times, as we mourn the tragic loss of three brave police officers and pray for their souls to find eternal peace, we find ourselves confronted with an unsettling reality. There are voices among us, individuals who praise the shooter and propagate messages of hatred and violence towards our own police force. This cannot be the path we choose for our beloved Gambia,” he noted.

Musa Batchilly called upon the Gambian government to take action in apprehending any individuals who had a hand in the shooting of the young police officers, which resulted in their deaths.

“We must send a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated in our society. These individuals must be held accountable for their words and actions,” he added.

Batchilly pointed out that individuals who speak savagely about the Gambia police force and other security personnel are likely to cause harm if their actions are disregarded.

“We must recognize the grave danger these individuals pose to our nation. Those who can speak so callously about our police force, our protectors, have the potential to harm us all if given the opportunity. We cannot ignore this threat, and we must act swiftly to neutralize it. It is my firm belief that as a nation, we can rise above this divisiveness. We can unite in our grief for the fallen officers and in our determination to ensure justice prevails. Our police force deserves our utmost respect and support. They put their lives on the line daily to safeguard us, and their sacrifices must not be in vain.”

The renowned politician called on the Gambian people to remember that the strength of the nation lies in its unity and commitment to justice. He believes that together, the people can create a safer Gambia for all its citizens, urging everyone to stand together as a united front against hatred, violence, and divisions.

“In the face of adversity, we can emerge stronger. This is the Gambia we envision, and this is the Gambia we must build together,” The GAP leader concluded.

EXCLUSIVE: Bolton star prefers to represent The Gambia over Guinea Bissau

Hadram Hydara
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EXCLUSIVE: Bolton star prefers to represent The Gambia over Guinea Bissau

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

Bolton Wanderers’ Carlos Mendes Gomez, a player for the English club, who is eligible to play for both the Gambia and Guinea Bissau has expressed to The Fatu Network his desire to play for the Gambia national team, despite receiving contact from Guinea-Bissau football officials urging him to choose Guinea over Gambia.

Mendez, who has a Gambian mother and a father from Bissau, is an attacking midfielder who can play anywhere in the attack.

At a very young age, Mendez started playing in Spain and moved to the United Kingdom with his family at 16. At 19, he signed with Luton Town for the 2021/2022 English Premier League season. After a successful loan with Fleetwood Town last season, Mendez was quickly picked up by Bolton Wanderers from Luton Town.

When quizzed if he would ditch Bissau for the Gambia, Mendez told The Fatu Network that he would love to play for the Gambia when the opportunity arises and will discuss it with his family.

“If the opportunity came, I would like to sit down with my family and decide. But I am aware how fast the Gambia national team is developing and improving,” he told TFN.

Like any other star player, Guinea-Bissau officials are also in contact with him to convince him to play for them, but the attacking midfielder prefers playing for the Gambia and would like to take the opportunity when it comes his way.

In the English league currently, Carlos has two goals and one assist for Bolton Wanderers.

The Fatu Network understands that Carlos visits the Gambia almost every year.

Gambia National Female Football Team Departs for Morocco in Preparation for Namibia’s Game

Seringe Touray
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Gambia National Female Football Team Departs for Morocco in Preparation for Namibia’s Game

By: Alagie Cherno Suwareh

The Gambia’s female football team has departed for Morocco in preparation for their upcoming match against Namibia in the Africa Women Cup of Nations second-round qualifiers for 2024. The team were scheduled to arrive in Rabat via Casablanca through Air Morocco at 6:50 am on September 18, 2023.

The Female Scorpions are set to commence their campaign on September 21st at the Complexe Sportif Prince Heritier Moulay Al Hassan in Rabat, Morocco. They will face off again three days later, on September 24th, at the same venue,” according to a statement from the Gambia Football Federation (GFF).

After four months of intensive training, the female team is eager to bounce back from a 6-1 defeat against the Moroccan team. They also aim to recover from losses in two previous matches. In contrast, Namibia has a strong track record against Gambia’s female team, with one win and one draw in their two previous encounters. Namibia recently turned their form around after losing two matches, securing a win and a draw in their most recent fixtures.

This upcoming match marks the debut for Gambian-born coach Yaya Manneh, who was appointed shortly after serving as the assistant head coach for The Gambia U20 team in the recently concluded U20 World Cup and Afcon U20 Cup.

In an interview with TFN reporter Alagie Cherno, Coach Yaya expressed the team’s readiness to compete, stating, “Despite not receiving the respect we deserve based on our previous records, the team is prepared and determined to secure maximum points against our opponents.”

Should the new coach manage to secure victories for the Female Scorpions in both matches against Namibia, it would be a significant achievement. Prior to his arrival, the team suffered an 8-0 and a 2-1 defeat against Cameroon in both legs, along with an embarrassing 7-1 loss to the Moroccan team in the same competition.

Darboe asks IGP to start mending ‘bad’ reputation of police rather than…

Hadram Hydara
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Darboe asks IGP to start mending ‘bad’ reputation of police rather than…

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

The Party Leader and Secretary General of the United Democratic Party (UDP), Lawyer Ousainou Darboe, has challenged the leadership of the Gambia Police Force to cleanse itself and engage officers in restoring a good reputation because the Police Intervention Unit (PIU) has established a bad name for itself amidst continues controversies between the UDP and the PIU.

Darboe challenged the police leadership during a press conference yesterday where the party condemned the arrest of its campaign manager, Momodou Sabally and party supporter, Sheriffo Bayo Sonko, who are all detained by the police since Friday.

“I challenge the leadership of not only the PIU, but the police, because the PIU is part of the Gambia Police Force, that you should engage in reputation building rather than doing things that will undermine your reputation,” he said.

The UDP’s party leader went further to say that the police have established a bad name for itself and should cleanse itself to convince citizens that the officers deserve to be in uniform.

“The PIU has, in fact, established a bad name for itself in the country. And I think it is time that the PIU cleanse itself. The PIU should take itself to the laundry and make itself clean by building a reputation that the Gambian people will feel that these people deserve to be in our uniform; these are people who do not brutalize our citizens,” he remarked.

Lawyer Ousainou Darboe, in his defence and condemnation of the arrest of Momodou Sabally, said his campaign manager didn’t commit any crime because the police have been brutalizing citizens, citing the example of one Fatou Mboge, whom he said was brutalized by the police around his residence.

Darboe called on the police to treat his party supporters like they do others and based on the law. He claimed that the security forces in the country are as it was during the regime of Yahya Jammeh.

Momodou Sabally, the General Campaign Manager of the UDP was invited for questioning on Friday for a comment he posted against the PIU preceding the tragic killing of two serving policemen on Tuesday night at Sukuta-Jabang highway. The police Wednesday arrested one Ousainou Bojang, suspected to be the mastermind of the tragic shooting.

At the time of going to the press, the police didn’t say if Momodou Sabally would be charged. By law, he is expected to be released either on bail or allowed to go home free or be charged tomorrow.

OPINION: I am in genuine solidarity with the United Democratic Party (UDP)

Hadram Hydara
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OPINION: I am in genuine solidarity with the United Democratic Party (UDP)

Opinion:

By: Modou Mboob

With this write-up, I wish to express my unwavering solidarity with The Gambia’s main opposition party, UDP. The recent arrest and witch-hunting occasioned against top UDP members are really unfortunate, unfair and unjust from the look of things. An arrest that’s done with malicious intent is inequitable and unacceptable even if the charges are in fact true because actions are judged based on intentions. It’s unfair to arrest an individual for merely expressing his thoughts as this violates the commonly known Fundamental Human Rights principle- freedom of speech and expression. Today, The Gambia cannot afford to relapse into dictatorship when we’ve already made significant progress in surmounting the menace.

Mr. President Adama Barrow, I am a fan of your leadership because of your peaceful personality. I voted for you in both elections because I trust with your leadership The Gambia can maintain peace until the time comes for a true leader to surface. However, I am not happy with the way your government is treating the main opposition of the country. Please note that the oppositions are not your enemy neither are they enemies of the state. Looking at the significant roles oppositions ought to play in holding governments to account, you should in fact consider them as your friend because if you listen to them carefully they (opposition) should help you grow as a leader.

To the UDP leadership, I wish to commend your approach in handling the ongoing unfair treatment of your members; and I encourage you to never relent in pursuing justice through legal means. Despite the fact that I don’t agree with Mr. Darboe on many aspects of governance, he must be commended for his love for The Gambia and his desire to maintain peace. Sir, please keep your head up high for people are watching from a distance.

To the security officers, if you haven’t learned your lesson from your colleagues from the past regime, then you’re yet to learn. As police officers, you are obliged to ensure that the citizens are safe and protected, and it’ll be very disturbing if you’re seen doing exactly the opposite of what’s expected of you. Tomorrow, you’ll be asked how you protected the people you were mandated to protect. At this point, ask yourself what your response would be.

To the UDP members, please tone down the way you criticize the government as the way you express yourself goes to show who you really are. You belong to a party full of talent and drive, but The Gambia is not ready for the kind of tone of some members within the party.

Furthermore, this’s the time I expect all other genuine political parties to condemn what’s going on irrespective of whether you’re in alliance with the government or not. We should be truthful and honest with the people we work with, for honesty is the best policy. Injustice against one person must be seen as injustice against everyone. This’s the way to go, Gambia!

In conclusion, I hope the above message serves a purpose to all parties involved in making the Gambia’s political atmosphere very unconducive at the moment. We deserve better! Thank you.

Fa Inna ma’al usri yusra!

Best regards,
Modou Mboob.
Concerned Citizen.

French Ambassador to Niger Held “Hostage” by the Military Junta, Says Macron

Seringe Touray
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French Ambassador to Niger Held “Hostage” by the Military Junta, Says Macron

By: Sainabou Gassama

President Emmanuel Macron alleged on Friday that the French ambassador to Niger is effectively trapped within the French embassy, dependent on military rations, and accused the ruling military leaders of obstructing food deliveries to the embassy.

He stated, “As we speak, we have an ambassador and diplomatic staff who are literally being held hostage in the French embassy.” Macron also noted that they were impeding food supplies, implying that this action was carried out by Niger’s new military rulers, before adding that the ambassador was subsisting on military rations.

In the wake of the overthrow of President Mohamed Bazoum on July 26, Niger’s military authorities instructed French Ambassador Sylvain Itte to leave the country. However, despite a 48-hour ultimatum issued in August, Ambassador Itte remained in place, as the French government refused to comply with the demand or recognize the legitimacy of the military regime. France, along with most of Niger’s neighboring countries, has condemned the coup.

Macron explained that the ambassador “cannot go out, he is persona non grata and he is being refused food.” When asked if France would consider recalling the ambassador, Macron responded, “I will do whatever we agree with President Bazoum because he is the legitimate authority and I speak with him every day.”

France maintains approximately 1,500 troops in Niger and has previously stated that any redeployment would require negotiations with President Bazoum. The new leaders of Niger have annulled military cooperation agreements with France and urged French troops to depart swiftly. Macron has consistently rejected calls to recall the French ambassador, a stance that the European Union (EU) also supports, with the EU describing the demand as “a provocation.”

Like France, the EU does not acknowledge the authorities who seized power in Niger. The Sahel region, situated south of the Sahara Desert and plagued by coups in recent years, has seen military regimes replace elected governments in Mali, Burkina Faso, Guinea, and Niger, prompting Macron to label it an “epidemic” of coups.

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