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Reading Still Matters in the Smartphone Era Despite Gradual Decline

Hadram Hydara
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Reading Still Matters in the Smartphone Era Despite Gradual Decline

OPINION

By Bernice Ndeckey

Individuals nurturing the culture of reading – Photo: credit UTG website

In today’s world, many young people spend hours on their phones, scrolling through TikTok, chatting on WhatsApp, Instagram or watching videos on YouTube. While technology has its benefits, one important habit is slowly fading away, and that is reading. Reading may not seem exciting to some people anymore; it may look old-fashioned, but it is still one of the most powerful tools for personal growth and success, and still one of the best ways to learn, grow, and improve one’s future.

Piedmont Healthcare indicated that reading plays a vital role in human development, significantly contributing to health, academic achievement, and social wellbeing. Numerous studies have shown that reading regularly can reduce stress levels, improve mental health, and even increase longevity. The report also showed that reading just a few minutes of each day can lower heart rate and ease muscle tension, thus effectively reducing stress.
Furthermore, reading has been linked to better sleep quality and a lower risk of cognitive decline in old age, according to Nuvance Health, and PubMed Central, 2016. Despite all the aforementioned good benefits associated to reading, the habit of reading is gradually fading away in today’s world.

Academically, reading helps improve one’s vocabulary, comprehension and critical thinking skills, the more one reads, the more words one learns, and this helps you to express yourself clearly. It also builds your confidence, in writing and public speaking. Other reports, including Lakewood Catholic Academy, showed that students who read regularly tend to perform better across various subjects due to increased focus and mental engagement. It also fosters a love of learning and curiosity, traits essential for lifelong personal and professional development. In a chat with a teacher at St. Therese’s Upper Basic School he acknowledged the importance of reading in the academic development of students. “I noticed that students who read at home perform better in class. They speak better, write better, and think better,” said Mr. Emmanuel Mendy, an S.E.S teacher.

Reading helps improve one’s vocabulary. The more one reads, the more words one learns, and this helps express oneself clearly. It also builds one’s confidence, especially during essay writing, public speaking, etc. That is why in 2009, the ‘Gambia Reads’ programme, supported by the Global Partnership for Education, which aimed to enhance early learning, introduced instruction in local languages to improve reading at schools. In 2009, it was reported that over half of Gambian students in grade 2 could not read a single word.

To help students pick up the habit of reading again, the Early Grade Reading Assessment

The Gambia conducted a study with 1,200 Gambian primary school students learning to read in English. The assessment measured foundational reading skills such as letter recognition, phonemic awareness, and reading comprehension. The survey results indicated that students with regular reading habits performed better in these areas. Therefore, supporting the habit of reading shapes a student’s future reading skills.

Paul Jammeh, a 11th grade student at St. Peter’s Senior Secondary School expressed passion for reading. “It’s not just about passing exams. Reading helps me improve my English and understand different topics, even outside school,” he said.

Furthermore, reading helps to improve communication skills by exposing individuals to different styles of expression and storytelling, which in turn enhances their ability to express thoughts clearly and confidently, this helping them fit in the society.
It is important to note that reading is a habit, and just like any habit it grows with time. In the pursuit for a better Gambia with a better future the Gambia National Library Service Authority offers children and adults reading opportunities, where they provide book and guide for people read and learn how to read. Other youth centres in Kanifing, Brikama, and Banjul, also offer reading programmes for people.

To nurture the habit of reading, one does not have to start with complex books or difficult novels, simple stories in books in local newspapers, or children’s magazines. Also, short online articles on interesting topics. Libraries and community reading clubs can also offer a comfort zone in helping to grow the habit of reading.

John Mendy, a 16-year-old from Bwiam, urged fellow students to make time for themselves; saying it is important for the brain than phone addiction. “Sometimes, I put my phone away and read before bed. It helps me sleep better and makes school easier,’’ the teenager said.

Smartphones and social media are not bad, but it’s important to allocate time for reading too. Even just 15 to 30 minutes daily can make a big difference. So next time you reach for your phone, think twice. Maybe pick up a book instead. Your brain and your future will thank you.

About the author: Bernice Ndeckey is a 3rd year student at the University of the Gambia. She is a major in English language.

GALA Demands Transparency in Sale of Ex-Dictator Jammeh’s Assets, Calls for ICC Nominee’s Withdrawal

Hadram Hydara
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GALA Demands Transparency in Sale of Ex-Dictator Jammeh’s Assets, Calls for ICC Nominee’s Withdrawal

Gambians Against Looted Assets (GALA) has issued a scathing petition to the Ministry of Justice and Attorney General’s Chambers, demanding urgent accountability for the allegedly non-transparent and undervalued sale of assets seized from former President Yahya Jammeh.

The move follows an explosive investigative report by The Republic titled “The Assets of Gambia’s Former Dictator Go for a Song,” which uncovered irregularities in the disposal process.

In the petition, GALA warns that the asset sales—intended to symbolise accountability for Jammeh’s 22-year authoritarian rule—have instead “threaten[ed] to undermine public trust and discredit the entire exercise.” The group alleges “non-transparent disposal processes, potential insider dealings, and failure to keep the public informed,” and has demanded immediate action under constitutional and transparency laws.

GALA states: “These assets—recovered in the name of justice and national healing—were meant to symbolise accountability and restitution for the Gambian people. Instead, the opaque disposal process […] now threaten[s] to undermine public trust.”

The petition, grounded in Section 25(1)(f) of The Gambia’s 1997 Constitution and the Access to Information Act (2021), outlines five demands:

1. Publication of Asset Disposal Records: A full, unredacted list of seized assets, including “detailed descriptions, final sale prices, buyer names, and valuation methodologies.”
2. Disclosure of Proceeds Usage: A breakdown of how sale funds were allocated, including “commissions, intermediary fees, or consultant payments.”
3. Independent Oversight: Creation of a joint oversight body with the National Assembly, National Audit Office, and civil society to audit past transactions and monitor future sales.
4. Withdrawal of ICC Nomination: Immediate retraction of former Justice Minister Abubacarr Ba Tambadou’s nomination to the International Criminal Court, citing concerns over his oversight of the asset-disposal process.
5. Presidential Address: A public statement from President Adama Barrow outlining a “concrete, time-bound plan” to address accountability and institutional reforms.

GALA further “prays” that the National Assembly launch a formal inquiry into the asset sales and that President Barrow take “decisive action against any officials found culpable.”

The petition concludes with a rallying cry: “These revelations are far more than administrative lapses—they are a pivotal test of our national commitment to truth, justice, and the democratic ideals we cherish.”

GALA’s last week’s protest reignited public debate over accountability for Jammeh-era crimes and corruption. Jammeh, who ruled from 1994 to 2017, fled into exile after refusing to accept electoral defeat. His regime was marked by torture, extrajudicial killings, and embezzlement of state funds.

Sabally Says UDP Lacks Moral Authority to Criticize Barrow on Jammeh’s Assets

Seringe Touray
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Sabally Says UDP Lacks Moral Authority to Criticize Barrow on Jammeh’s Assets

By: Mama A. Touray

Special Presidential Adviser Momodou Sabally has said that the United Democratic Party (UDP) lacks the moral authority to criticize President Adama Barrow over the issue of former President Yahya Jammeh’s assets. Speaking in a recent interview on West Coast Radio, Sabally was responding to remarks made by the UDP in Farafenni, where the party accused the current government of leading the country toward dictatorship.

“UDP does not have the moral authority to criticize President Adama Barrow and the National People’s Party on the issue of Jammeh’s assets,” Sabally stated. “When the commission was formed, UDP was part and parcel of the coalition government. In fact, they were the major stakeholder and were calling the shots in this government.”

He further argued that the composition of the Janneh Commission reflects the influence of the UDP, citing individuals he claims were closely aligned with the party. “Even a casual look at the composition of the Janneh Commission reveals that key players were associated with UDP. Ba Tambadou, whom I have criticized and continue to criticize, is still celebrated by the UDP to this day—he is one of them.”

Fondly called “Sabs,” Sabally emphasized that the UDP should apologize to Gambians rather than cast blame. “They were part of the group that acted out of emotion, driven by an apparent desire for revenge. That’s what led to all these missteps, and now we are left with a mess that we must work together to correct,” he said. He urged the UDP to stop “finger-pointing and name-calling” and instead focus on constructive dialogue and national progress.

Reflecting on his own experience within the UDP, Sabally admitted that he once believed the negative perceptions of Barrow. “When I was in the UDP, many of Barrow’s opponents said all sorts of things to convince me he was not competent and didn’t have the country’s best interests at heart. From afar, I believed it,” he confessed. “But now that I’m working with him, I’ve realized that’s not true. I regret the unfair statements I made, and I thank him for his patience, tolerance, and accommodation.” He added, “Let the UDP clean up their internal mess rather than pointing fingers at others.”

On the recent protest organized by Gambians Against Looted Assets (GALA), Sabally reiterated his position that the list of seized assets should be made public. However, he criticized the approach taken by the protesters. “Do I agree with the protesters going out? I think it’s wrong to protest in this country without a permit, and I stand by that. My position is that it’s illegal. If your permit was denied, reapply and negotiate—we’ve done that before, even when I was in the UDP,” he said.

Sabally also dismissed claims that the government routinely denies permits for protests against corruption. “That’s a lie,” he said. “I was part of the UDP when we requested a permit to protest against corruption, and it was granted.”

“Their Goal Is to Keep Us in a Permanent War”: Traore Rejects Human Rights Watch Mass Killing Accusations

Seringe Touray
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“Their Goal Is to Keep Us in a Permanent War”: Traore Rejects Human Rights Watch Mass Killing Accusations

Written by: Seringe ST Touray

In a televised interview with Russia’s international state television, Russia Today (RT), Burkina Faso’s leader, Captain Ibrahim Traore, strongly dismisses accusations from Human Rights Watch (HRW) regarding military abuses in his country. He frames the fight against terrorism not just as a battle for national security. Instead, Captain Traore views this as part of a larger struggle against Western imperialism.

This month’s uproar didn’t come out of the blue. It followed a string of closely linked events. On May 9, Traore was in Moscow for the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s World War II victory. A day later, he was at the Kremlin, face to face with Putin. The meeting was no quiet affair. It was filmed, shared, and talked about everywhere, especially given the growing closeness between their two countries.

Putin welcomed Traore with warm words, stating, “Your visit to Russia to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the victory is a great symbol and it reflects the friendly character of relations between Burkina Faso and Russia.” He also brought up the historical connection between the two countries, noting that about 30,000 Burkinabè soldiers had fought alongside the anti-Hitler coalition during World War II—a reminder that the roots of their relationship stretch back decades.

The agenda of the meeting overwhelmingly focused on counterterrorism cooperation, expansion of commercial activity, and educational exchange, with Putin going so far as to reveal that the number of Russian state scholarships available to Burkinabè students had increased more than two-fold for the 2024-2025 academic year. Traore expressed gratitude for the invite and commended Russia for remaining strong on the world stage “despite all the sanctions.”

On May 12, immediately after the diplomatic meetings, HRW published a report alleging that Burkina Faso government forces committed the massacre of at least 100 Fulani civilians near Solenzo in western Burkina Faso. The report claims that Burkina Faso’s special forces and the pro-government Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDPs) – civilian fighters recruited by the government – were to blame. According to HRW, the country’s own military “led and participated in the massacre of more than 130, possibly many more, ethnic Fulani civilians” during an operation in the Boucle du Mouhoun region in March 2025. HRW further stated that these killings were part of an extensive military operation that resulted in mass civilian deaths and alarge-scale displacement of Fulani people.

“The viral videos of the atrocities by pro-government militias near Solenzo sent shock waves through Africa’s Sahel region, but they told only part of the story,” said Ilaria Allegrozzi, senior Sahel researcher at HRW. “Further research uncovered that Burkina Faso’s military was responsible for these mass killings of Fulani civilians, which were followed by deadly reprisals by an Islamist armed group. The government needs to impartially investigate these deaths and prosecute all those responsible.”

The HRW report outlined how these operations unfolded over several days, claiming that the pro-government militias (VDPs) would shoot at civilians and loot their cattle, forcing them to flee. The report states that military forces “blocked their flight in an apparent pincer move, then massacred at least 130 civilians and possibly several hundred trapped in the bush.”

Notably, prior to the release of HRW’s report, the Burkinabè government had already issued a statement on March 15, describing the events of March 10. The government claimed that militia and security forces had repelled a “terrorist” attack, killing around 100 assailants. In its version of events, it reported finding women, children, and elderly civilians whom it said had been used as human shields by attackers. These individuals, the government alleged, were later misrepresented as civilian victims by rights organizations. HRW’s May report, however, disputed this narrative, claiming that witnesses found no evidence of fighting near Solenzo and instead described a premeditated military massacre.

Traore, however, vehemently rejected these accusations. Speaking to Russian state television, he dismissed the allegations as part of a broader Western plot to destabilize Africa.

“It’s not terrorism, it’s imperialism,” Traore declared when asked about the security situation in his country. “Their goal is to keep us in a permanent war so that we cannot develop and continue to lose our resources, and so they have every interest in bringing specialists in mines to lay various types of mines, explosives specialists.”

The HRW accusations about the Solenzo killings were not the first of their kind. In April, HRW had claimed that Burkinabè forces had executed over 200 civilians, including children, in two northern villages—an allegation that Traore’s government continues to deny. When asked about the financiers behind the “terrorist” fighters operating in his country, Traore responded cryptically, “All imperialist countries finance these fighters. They are numerous. We cannot name them individually. Some are even hidden, unimaginable, but they are numerous.”

Traore also took aim at Western media and human rights organizations, accusing them of spreading misinformation. “The Western media, you often listen to them, they spend their time lying,” he said. He added, “Look today at the AES [Alliance of Sahel States] which is a model that is emerging, they can’t go from morning to night without talking about Burkina Faso or talking about the [AES]… it’s impossible for them, and every time they try to send information to divide, to manipulate the youth.”

In one of his strongest critiques of Western attitudes toward Africa, Traore stressed: “Africans are not capable of developing anything, Africans are not capable of inventing, of innovating, of taking initiatives, that’s what we are fighting against. And as long as they continue to see Africans like that, as subhumans who are not capable of thinking, who are not capable of innovating, capable of inventing, we can never be friends.”

He added, “It’s the very vision they have of black people, they have to stop that because by treating us like that, it’s as if they see black people as subhumans, and that’s dangerous.”

Throughout the interview, Traore repeatedly referred to the historical injustices Africans have suffered, including the exploitation of African soldiers during World War II and nuclear testing. “Do people know that when France was experimenting with its first atomic bomb, it was black soldiers they put next to it in the lethal radius to see the effect? Let’s bring out the archives. Everything they used against Africa, it’s terrible,” he said.

He also criticized the manipulation of historical narratives by Western powers: “Through communication, they managed to reverse history, and African history too. They schemed everything to pass off lies, and that means that young Africans, some don’t even know the history of Africa, what did Africa do, some don’t even know that our grandparents fought, were put at the forefront as cannon fodder, and on their return they were killed like animals.”

Traore’s outright dismissal of the Human Rights Watch accusations during his Russian state television appearance reflects a deeper realignment underway in the Sahel. Burkina Faso, along with Mali and Niger, is steadily pulling away from old alliances with the West, especially France, while drawing nearer to Moscow. The release of the HRW report, coming right on the heels of Traore’s public engagement with Putin, throws into sharp relief the battle over narratives in a region increasingly marked by division and shifting loyalties.

For Traore, the fight against terrorism is inseparable from his broader fight for true independence from Western influence. His message to Russian television made that clear: “Africans are not capable of developing anything, Africans are not capable of inventing, of innovating, of taking initiatives, that’s what we are fighting against.”

While HRW’s report presents a grim view of the security situation in Burkina Faso, Traore’s government offers a starkly different perspective. For him, international human rights organizations are merely instruments in a larger Western strategy aimed at maintaining influence in Africa. As these competing narratives continue to shape international perceptions of the Sahel conflict, Traore’s message remains resolute: the fight against terrorism is intrinsically tied to the fight against modern imperialism.

UDP Demands Minister Retract Threat Against Mayor, Activist Over Protest Rights

Hadram Hydara
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UDP Demands Minister Retract Threat Against Mayor, Activist Over Protest Rights

By Mama A. Touray

The United Democratic Party (UDP) has called on Gambian Agriculture Minister Demba Sabally to retract his warning that Banjul Mayor Rohey Malick Lowe and lawyer Essa Mbye Faal could face arrest if they join youth-led protests, condemning the remarks as a threat to constitutional rights.

Sabally, speaking at a political rally in Tallinding on Sunday, vowed that authorities would “arrest and send Rohey Malick Lowe and Essa Faal to jail” if they participated in peaceful demonstrations. The UDP, in a statement issued Monday, described the comments as “an abuse of authority” and demanded an immediate retraction and public apology.

“UDP demands an immediate retraction and apology from Minister Sabally for his inflammatory remarks,” the party stated, adding that the government must provide a “public assurance [it] will respect and protect citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly” and cease “political victimisation.”

The party invoked Section 25(1)(d) of The Gambia’s 1997 Constitution, which guarantees citizens the right to “assemble and demonstrate peaceably and without arms.” It emphasised that this right extends to all individuals, including elected officials like Mayor Lowe and political figures such as Faal, a former presidential candidate.

“For a sitting Minister to openly threaten arrest and imprisonment for exercising a constitutional right is an abuse of authority and a clear violation of democratic principles,” the UDP said in a statement. “Such statements undermine the rule of law and create a climate of fear and intimidation.”

The UDP urged the Gambia National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to investigate the matter, stressing that public officials “must not be allowed to intimidate citizens with unlawful threats.” It also warned President Adama Barrow’s administration against reverting to tactics reminiscent of the country’s authoritarian past under former leader Yahya Jammeh.

“The Gambia has fought hard to move away from the dark days of dictatorship,” the statement read. “We urge the government to act responsibly and uphold the democratic values that our people sacrificed for.”

Sabally’s remarks have sparked concerns over escalating political tensions ahead of anticipated protests. The UDP affirmed its solidarity with “the youths of this nation, Mayor Rohey Lowe, Essa Mbye Faal, and all Gambians who choose to protest peacefully for a better future,” pledging to resist attempts to “silence dissent.”

Neither Sabally nor government spokespersons had publicly responded to the UDP’s demands at the time of publication.

Dictatorship No More

Hadram Hydara
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Dictatorship No More

OPINION

By Alh Suntou Touray – London

Calls for transparency and public engagement are natural features of democratic governance. However, the attempt to paint President Adama Barrow as a dictator suggests that some people are, perhaps, nostalgic for the “real McCoy”—Yahya AJJ Jammeh, the embodiment of ruthless tyranny and public lawlessness.

In politics and democracy, it’s common to stir up public sentiment and generate tension to make an incumbent appear unpopular. This can take the form of provocation—sometimes overt, sometimes subtle. Attacking a leader’s credibility, goading them into emotional responses, and waiting for any sign of misstep is all part of the political game. That is the challenge of managing a democracy: it demands patience, balance, and openness—far different from the rigid control of a dictatorship, where dissent is simply silenced.

Those of us who are close to President Adama Barrow can attest that he is far from harbouring dictatorial tendencies. In fact, he often delegates responsibilities to the appropriate officials and rarely overreacts when those officials fall short. If anything, he is actually restrained in his reactions.

Post-dictatorship governance is often complicated by the lingering habits of the past. Many leaders find it easier to mimic the firm-handed ways of their predecessors. But President Barrow has deliberately distanced himself from the authoritarian methods of Yahya Jammeh. He comes from a completely different school of thought—one grounded in dialogue, civility, and constitutionalism.

Critics who aim to provoke President Barrow should reflect on this contrast. Dictatorship often comes from a background in security and control, accompanied by deep emotional and psychological scars. But democracy thrives on resilience, compromise, and public trust.

Let’s not make “dictatorship hunting” a distraction. In the delicate art of nation-building, it’s important to recognise growth where it’s due and to protect the fragile, hard-earned gains of democracy.

Those entrusted to execute public service should always remember their obligations and not hide behind the insulation of invisible walls of being a civil servant. The calm and cordial disposition President Adama Barrow is known for should continue to define his leadership methods. The youths all over the world have different ways of reacting to situations, leaders act with calmness and openness to resolve crisis where they arise.

President Adama Barrow is not a dictator even in a metaphorical sense.

The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect The Fatu Network’s editorial stance.

Gambian Industries Warn of Economic Impact After Youth Demonstration

Hadram Hydara
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Gambian Industries Warn of Economic Impact After Youth Demonstration

By Mama A. Touray

The Confederation of Gambian Industries has voiced concerns over the potential economic and social repercussions of the recent three-day youth demonstration, warning that unrest at this critical juncture could hinder the country’s post-pandemic recovery.

In a statement shared with the media, the confederation acknowledged the democratic right to peaceful protest but stressed the need for stability, particularly as The Gambia navigates a fragile economic recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic.

The demonstration, led by the Gambians Against Looted Assets (GALA), was planned as a peaceful protest from the Christian cemetery to the Attorney General’s chambers. However, the Inspector General of Police denied permission for the march last Wednesday. Despite this, activists gathered at the cemetery ahead of the scheduled protest time, leading to multiple arrests—a move that triggered widespread discontent among young people across the country.

The Confederation of Gambian Industries cautioned that instability and uncertainty could negatively affect investor confidence, industrial productivity, and job creation.

“Our industrial sector, already facing significant challenges from global disruptions, remains a critical engine of youth employment and economic growth. The active participation of young people in our industries is essential—not only as workers and entrepreneurs but as future leaders of national development,” the statement read.

Business leaders fear the unrest may exacerbate economic difficulties, with potential repercussions for youth employment, a sector that remains vital for national development.

The confederation urged all parties, particularly young activists, to seek constructive engagement and dialogue in addressing their concerns. They also called on authorities to handle protests in a manner that is “measured, lawful, and respectful of civil liberties.”

The organization reaffirmed its commitment to working with the government, civil society, and development partners to strengthen an inclusive and resilient industrial sector that serves the interests of all Gambians, particularly the youth.

Mansa Konko Area Council Confirms Receiving Tractors

Hadram Hydara
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0
Mansa Konko Area Council Confirms Receiving Tractors

By Dawda Baldeh

The opposition Chairman at Mansa Konko Area Council, Landing Sanneh, has confirmed that they received three tractors from the Janneh Commission in 2019.

Chairman Sanneh acknowledged that the tractors were delivered to the council free to support their operations.

“The Mansakonko Area Council was allocated three (3) tractors in February 2019 by the Commission of Inquiry on the Financial Dealings, Assets, etc of the president, his Family, and Close Associates, commonly known as the Janneh Commission,” he said.

These tractors were intended to support the Council’s community service delivery, for example, waste collection.

“Out of the three tractors, only two were in good working condition, and one was completely not.

“Upon receiving the tractors, the Council deployed one to the Bureng Lumo in Jarra East District and another was stationed at the main office to support the routine operations, while the third one remained as a scrap at the office,” he added.

He went on to note that only two are still functioning, which have immensely contributed to their waste collection efforts.

Furthermore, he clarified that the council did not buy the tractors.

“Mansakonko Area Council did not buy the tractors, rather were officially allocated to us by the Janneh Commission,” he added.

Sabally Critiques Janneh Commission Process, Highlights Gambia’s Messy and Difficult Transition

Hadram Hydara
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0
Sabally Critiques Janneh Commission Process, Highlights Gambia’s Messy and Difficult Transition

By Mama A. Touray

Momodou Sabally, special adviser to the President, has described Gambia’s ongoing transition as “messy and difficult,” highlighting concerns about handling former President Yahya Jammeh’s assets.

Speaking on West Coast Radio on Monday, Sabally remarked, “We are going through a messy, difficult transition, and this Janneh Commission is one of the commissions set up to see us through the jungle to the promised land, where we have not reached yet.”

Sabally criticized the approach taken with the commission’s investigations, arguing that decisions were made emotionally rather than with careful reasoning.

“The problem with the transition process, especially with the Janneh Commission, is that we rush into these things with emotions when reasoning and due process should have guided us,” he said.

He also aimed at the former Minister of Justice, Ba Tambedou, stating, “As the leader of this whole process, he is doing everything wrong, and [he] will go down in history as the worst attorney general and minister of justice in The Gambia.”

Sabally maintained that his previous criticisms of the commission and Tambedou remain unchanged, despite his current position in government. “Some of them, like Alagie Kurang, think I will disavow the statements because I am in government, but Momodou Sabally, as an individual and not in any official capacity—whatever I said about Ba Tambedou and the commission—I still stand by it,” he said. “All I am interested in is the truth, not name-calling, finger-pointing, or trying to use this situation of young people who went out to make a legitimate demand for a list.”

Regarding Jammeh’s assets, Sabally acknowledged that he testified before the Janneh Commission but said he could not determine which properties were legally owned by Jammeh. “It is definitely possible that Jammeh would own one or two properties either from a salary or gifts,” he said.

He further criticised the handling of the former president, “The way Jammeh’s assets were handled, due process was not followed. They sold some of these things, shared some of these things, but I am not here to defend Jammeh. What I can make clear is that I am not here to defend anybody—I am for the truth.”

Open Letter to the President of the Republic of The Gambia

Hadram Hydara
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Open Letter to the President of the Republic of The Gambia

OPINION

Dear Mr. President,

I write to you not as a partisan, nor as a supporter of any political figure past or present, but as a concerned citizen who still believes in the promise of justice, transparency, and accountability in our beloved country.

For years, the call for transparency in the disposal of the assets of former President Yahya A.J.J. Jammeh has echoed across The Gambia. The people demanded answers. Youth were arrested and detained for asking legitimate questions. Yet, in the face of adversity and silence, the demand for truth never waned. With the recent release of the list detailing the buyers, properties, and sale amounts of those seized assets, we finally glimpse what has been long hidden. However, what this list has exposed is deeply troubling.

Many of the concerns were raised by opposition parties, most notably the former President’s party, the APRC, and even some members of the National Assembly. These voices, once dismissed as politically motivated or conspiratorial, have long claimed that some of the former president’s properties and state-owned assets were sold off far below market value to individuals closely tied to those in positions of power, friends, relatives, and associates. These accusations date back to the inception of the Janneh Commission in 2018. And now, with tangible figures before us, we can no longer afford to ignore them.

Mr. President, you established and swore in that commission. You gave it a mandate. You
promised the Gambian people a transparent and accountable process. And yet, what we see today is the undermining of that promise. The findings reveal acts of nepotism, corruption, and potential financial fraud, all carried out in the name of justice, but ultimately betraying it. If the commission has failed in its sacred duty and allowed itself to become a tool for vendettas or personal enrichment, then you, as Head of State, have a moral and constitutional duty to act. You must set up an independent and impartial investigative body to probe the workings of the Janneh Commission. Let there be no fear, no favouritism, and no further delay.

Mr. President, please consider the poor farmers of Kartong, the struggling families in Basse, the communities across our country who were deprived of vital farming equipment and state resources simply because those assets were associated with a former regime. These were tools meant to empower rural livelihoods, not bargaining chips for political cleansing.

You once told the people that the former President left the nation’s coffers empty. But how then can we reconcile this with the millions of dalasis now seen in the disposal lists? Tractors, buildings, and vehicles that could have continued serving the public well were stripped away and sold at giveaway prices. Emotion, not policy, guided decisions. In the process, we ignored the rule of law and sacrificed national interest on the altar of political retribution. It is not enough to say, “It is done.” It is time to correct what has gone wrong.

Mr. President, this is your moment of reckoning. History has placed this chapter in your hands. You can choose to turn the page towards justice, transparency, and truth, or allow your legacy to be tainted by silence and complicity.

You may not have orchestrated the actions of the Commission, but you appointed it. And now, you are duty-bound to ensure that their actions are reviewed, and where misconduct is found, held accountable.

You are not doing this for Jammeh. You are not doing this for APRC. You are doing it for the
Gambian people, for the farmers, the youth, the mothers, and the taxpayers who deserve to know how their resources were managed and why. The law must be for all. Not for some. Justice must be blind. Not selective.

Let this be the beginning of a new chapter in The Gambia’s journey toward true democracy and good governance. Let history remember you not for how the past was punished, but for how the future was protected.
With hope and determination,

(A Concerned Citizen – Savage)

APP-Sobeyaa Warns Agriculture Minister: “The Gambia Is Not a Fiefdom”

Hadram Hydara
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APP-Sobeyaa Warns Agriculture Minister: “The Gambia Is Not a Fiefdom”

By Alieu Jallow

The All People’s Party-Sobeyaa (APP-Sobeyaa) has issued a strongly worded statement condemning what it describes as “reckless and authoritarian threats” by the Minister of Agriculture to arrest the party’s leader, Essa Mbye Faal, and Banjul Mayor Rohey Malick Lowe.

The statement, released on Monday, denounced the alleged threats as a “brazen assault on the democratic values we hold dear,” and warned the government that “any attempt to arrest or intimidate Essa Mbye Faal or Mayor Rohey Malick Lowe will face unyielding resistance from APP-Sobeyaa and the Gambian people.”

According to the party, both Faal and Mayor Lowe were standing with Gambian youth who have taken to the streets in recent days demanding clarity and accountability regarding the disposal of former President Yahya Jammeh’s seized assets.

“Our leader, a distinguished advocate for truth and justice, has stood shoulder to shoulder with the youth of this nation,” the statement reads. “This is not a crime; it is a patriotic duty.”

APP-Sobeyaa also cautioned the Minister and the broader government against any move that may further stoke public outrage, stating: “The rule of law is the bedrock of our democracy, and any action that undermines it will not only violate the Constitution of The Gambia but also ignite the righteous indignation of a people determined to protect their hard-won liberties,” the statement reads

“The Gambia is not a fiefdom where ministers can wield power with impunity, nor is it a place where threats can silence the pursuit of justice,” the party said.

The statement described the Minister’s remarks made during a public event as symptomatic of a government rattled by the courage of its citizens, particularly the youth, who APP-Sobeyaa says are protesting “not with violence, but with conviction.”

“Their cause is just, and their voices will not be silenced,” the statement reads.

Turning to the international community, the party called for vigilance, warning that “The Gambia’s democratic journey is under threat, and the world must not stand idly by as leaders resort to tactics reminiscent of the dark days of repression.”

The party appealed directly to institutions such as the African Union, ECOWAS, and the United Nations to hold the Gambian government accountable for upholding its democratic obligations.

Reaffirming its position, APP-Sobeyaa declared: “Threats will not intimidate us, nor will we waver in our pursuit of a Gambia where justice prevails, and every citizen’s voice is heard.”

Addressing the Minister directly, the party concluded with a sharp warning: “Retract your threats, respect the rights of all Gambians, and uphold the democratic ideals that define our nation. Failure to do so will only strengthen our resolve and galvanise the people’s demand for accountability.”

In a parting shot, the statement asserted: “The Gambia is watching. The world is watching. History will judge those who choose to stand on the side of oppression rather than justice. APP-Sobeyaa stands with the people, and we will not back down.”

“Very glad to see you” – Putin Honors Traoré in Kremlin Meeting; Thanks 30,000 Burkinabè Who Aided Russia in WWII

Seringe Touray
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“Very glad to see you” – Putin Honors Traoré in Kremlin Meeting; Thanks 30,000 Burkinabè Who Aided Russia in WWII

Seringe S.T. Touray

There was little pomp, but plenty of symbolism, when Russia’s President Vladimir Putin received Burkina Faso’s Captain Ibrahim Traoré at the Kremlin on Saturday, May 10th. The visit, which occurred following Friday’s commemorations of the Soviet victory in World War II, seemed to double as a message: ties between Moscow and Ouagadougou are getting tighter.

“We are very glad to see you,” Putin told Traoré as they sat down for talks. “Your visit to Russia to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the victory is a great symbol and it reflects the friendly character of relations between Burkina Faso and Russia.”

The two had last met in St. Petersburg at the 2023 Russia-Africa Summit. This time, Putin went a step further, pointing out a detail often left out of history books: roughly 30,000 Burkinabè had joined the anti-Hitler coalition under Charles de Gaulle’s command in World War II (1939–1945). “Some 30,000 Burkinabè fought with the anti-Hitler coalition forces under the leadership of the legendary Frenchman Charles de Gaulle,” he said.

From there, the conversation turned to more contemporary concerns — chiefly terrorism and state-building. “We will continue to support the republic in fighting against unlawful factions that are still operating in some parts of Burkina Faso,” Putin stated, drawing a line between historical struggles and today’s fight for security.

Trade and diplomacy weren’t left out. Putin flagged the reopening of Russia’s embassy in Ouagadougou after a three-decade absence, and also referenced a 2024 event titled the Economic Days of Burkina Faso in Russia. “Even if trade is modest, it’s growing—which is a good trend and we need to preserve it,” he noted.

Education and humanitarian outreach also got significant attention. “In 2024 and in 2025, the quota of Russian state scholarships for Burkinabè nationals was more than doubled,” Putin said. He mentioned that over 3,500 Burkinabè have studied in Russia so far and confirmed 27 new scholarships would be awarded this year.

On his part, Captain Traoré expressed gratitude for the invitation. “It was an honor to be part of the commemorative events devoted to the great victory anniversary,” he said. “I learned a lot about the culture, about history that lay the foundation of the resistance of the Russian people.”

He didn’t shy away from addressing global politics either. “Despite all the sanctions that were imposed on the Russian Federation by many states, Russia is still holding the leading position internationally,” Traoré said. “We understand how difficult it is.”

He pushed for deeper cooperation in areas he sees as key to Burkina Faso’s long-term development — especially in knowledge transfer and skills training. “We would like to see Russia assisting us in training and educating our youth to help us develop our own industries, our own enterprises, machinery, and other types of manufacturing,” Traoré explained.

He was even more direct on technology. “The most important thing you can help with is the exchange of technology and experience. We need to understand how we can use the experience and knowhow that Russian universities have and how we can spread it to Burkina Faso,” he said.

Traoré called terrorism a “legacy of imperialism” and stressed the urgency of strengthening both defense capabilities and the nation’s human capital. Education, he said, remains the “essential task” ahead.

The visit adds another entry in Russia’s growing push to connect with African nations at a time when its Western relationships remain strained. For Burkina Faso, the engagement holds out prospects for greater military support, tech access, and educational collaboration — all seen as vital for rebuilding a country still navigating instability and searching for a self-sustaining future.

Taboro Manneh Demands Transparency on Jammeh’s Seized Assets

Hadram Hydara
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0
Taboro Manneh Demands Transparency on Jammeh’s Seized Assets

By Michaella Faith Wright

Ebrima Taboro Manneh, leader of the People’s Alliance Party, has called out the government for its continued failure to disclose details about the sale of former President Yahya Jammeh’s seized assets, describing the situation as a betrayal of public trust.

Speaking in a WhatsApp audio message circulated on social media, Manneh said he was addressing the issue not as a politician but as a concerned citizen of The Gambia. He described the current political climate as a critical moment for every Gambian to stay informed and involved.

“These are interesting times to be a citizen of The Gambia, especially for those who are truly concerned about the direction of our beloved country,” he said. Manneh praised investigative journalist Mustapha K. Darboe for shedding light on the issue, saying his work has empowered citizens to demand accountability. “Mustapha has done a great job in uncovering facts that led to public demand for full disclosure on Jammeh’s assets,” he noted.

He criticised the government for not being transparent about how the assets were handled. “We all know the assets were seized, but who were they sold to? How much was recovered? Where did the money go?” he asked. “If this [were] an exam, the government has not even attempted to answer.”

Manneh emphasised that the youth are especially concerned and eager to know how public funds are used. “They want to understand where their taxes are going—your money and mine,” he said.

He concluded by urging the government to prioritise transparency and respond to the demands of citizens. “This is not about politics; it’s about national interest. The people deserve answers,” he said.

Hadram Hydara
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Darboe Calls on UDP NAMs to Reject Extra Ordinary Session Allowances

By Dawda Baldeh

As National Assembly Members (NAMs) prepare to meet for an extraordinary session on May 14 and 15, 2025, where they will deliberate on a significant motion to form a Special Select Committee to investigate the sales and disposal of assets and properties owned by former Gambian President Yahya Jammeh, opposition leader Ousainou Darboe has urged his party’s NAMs to refuse any sitting allowances.

Addressing party supporters at an event in Farafenni on Saturday night, Darboe stated that NAMs should not accept sitting allowances in this context.

“If you attend the parliament on Monday for the extraordinary session aimed at establishing a commission of inquiry into the sales of former President Jammeh’s assets, do not accept the sitting allowance,” he remarked.

Darboe further stated: “That money should be returned to the country.”

He called upon Alhagie S. Darboe, the minority leader, and encouraged him to persuade his fellow UDP lawmakers not to accept the funds.

“If other lawmakers accept it, you should refrain from doing so. This must be made very clear. This is not solely about the UDP; it concerns the Gambia, and we must hold the government accountable,” he stressed.

The opposition leader also praised the youth for their stand against injustice in their demand for the full disclosure of the list of buyers and sellers of former President Jammeh’s assets.

Additionally, he accused the government of persistently violating the law.

Frustrated but Hopeful: UK Visitor Criticizes Tourism Charges, Hospitality Woes in Gambia

Hadram Hydara
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Frustrated but Hopeful: UK Visitor Criticizes Tourism Charges, Hospitality Woes in Gambia

By Michaella Wright

British national Mark Butterworth, a longtime admirer of The Gambia, has voiced concerns over deteriorating hospitality services and increasing travel costs, warning that the country risks losing loyal visitors due to what he describes as “exploitative treatment.”

Mark Butterworth, a seasoned traveller who has made annual visits to The Gambia for years, says rising frustrations are now testing his deep love for the country. In an interview, Butterworth described how the friendliness of Gambians, the relaxed lifestyle, and the beauty of the land once made him feel at home, so much so that he built a residence and offered part of his land for community farming.

However, recent experiences have left him disheartened. “The reception isn’t as it once was,” he remarked. “The service at the airport has become unreliable, and some staff members appear uninterested or unfriendly.” He expressed outrage over the nearly $60 he was charged in unexplained airport taxes and fees when departing the country.

“I felt exploited for being a regular visitor,” he said, adding that for a family of five, the additional travel cost can total up to £160—money that could deter repeat tourists.
Butterworth also faced issues upon arrival. “I was told to pay a Serco entry fee, but when I attempted to use my card as instructed online, I was told the machine wasn’t working.

When I refused to go to a cash machine, my passport was confiscated,” he recounted.
Despite these setbacks, Butterworth remains cautiously optimistic. “I still believe in The Gambia’s potential,” he said, but warned that excessive taxation and poor customer service could drive loyal visitors elsewhere.

From Democratic Symbol to Captured Institution: The NHRC and The Gambia’s Accountability Crisis

Hadram Hydara
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0
From Democratic Symbol to Captured Institution: The NHRC and The Gambia’s Accountability Crisis

OPINION

By Dave Manneh – Research Lead, Securing Futures: Land Rights Action Collaborative
10th May 2025

In democracies, independent institutions guard against the concentration and abuse of power. When these bodies fail, or worse, actively undermine their mandates, they not only endanger democracy but imperil orderly society. The recent controversy involving the chair of The Gambia’s National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) exemplifies this danger, necessitating an intense and thorough public scrutiny.

Institutional Compromise in Plain Sight

The NHRC was initially welcomed as a symbol of democratic renewal following the collapse of Jammeh’s authoritarian regime. Established by an Act of Parliament in 2017 and operational by 2019, it represented a cornerstone of The Gambia’s post-dictatorship transition. It quickly gained recognition for its ambitious mandate, earning “A status” accreditation from the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI). This designation marked it as one of the first in the region to fully comply with the Paris Principles on independence, accountability, and pluralism. Abubacarr Tambadou, then Attorney General and Justice Minister, was widely credited as a driving force behind the NHRC’s creation during the early Barrow administration. His involvement was initially seen as instrumental to its legitimacy, cementing the NHRC as a flagship institution of the so-called New Gambia. But the very closeness between the NHRC and its political architects would soon emerge as its most profound vulnerability.

The troubling sequence began with The Republic’s investigative report on 30 April 2025. The report documented how assets seized from former dictator Yahya Jammeh, valued at approximately $362 million, were sold for merely $23.7 million, representing a staggering 93% loss of public value. More disturbingly, the report implicated former Justice Minister Abubacarr Tambadou in procedural irregularities surrounding these sales. Rather than defending press freedom and upholding public accountability, both core components of its human rights mandate, the NHRC acted in defence of Tambadou. On 6 May 2025, NHRC Chairperson Emmanuel Daniel Joof joined Media Council leaders in pressuring The Republic’s editor to issue a joint statement with Tambadou that would effectively exonerate him. Contextualising this alongside the NHRC’s public endorsement of Tambadou for the International Court of Justice reveals a profound institutional capture, directly threatening The Gambia’s democratic foundation.

The Founder’s Paradox

This controversy highlights the “founder’s paradox”: can institutions genuinely hold accountable those who created them? The NHRC’s statement supporting Tambadou’s ICJ nomination explicitly acknowledges his instrumental role in establishing the Commission. This creator-creation dynamic has transformed a potential independent guardian into a protective shield for its originator, illustrating a critical failure of oversight.
The NHRC’s behaviour embodies a corollary of elite capture: classic regulatory capture, where bodies of society set up to serve the public become instruments for protecting the powerful. When such watchdogs become complicit, the entire accountability ecosystem collapses, eroding public trust and enabling further abuses.

Beyond Individual Ethics: A Structural Problem

While focusing exclusively on individual ethical failures is tempting, the problem lies in systemic issues. The revolving door between government positions and oversight bodies generates conflicts that compromise institutional independence. In The Gambia, the transition from Jammeh’s authoritarianism has yielded formal democratic structures without the substantive application of democratic principles. The NHRC case underscores a critical failure of “horizontal accountability”, the system where state institutions are meant to scrutinise one another. This breakdown elevates the importance of “vertical accountability”, where citizens, through elections and civil society, hold power to account. As internal checks falter, “vertical mechanisms”, most notably a robust and independent press, engage in investigative journalism, and become the ultimate defence against impunity. This highlights the indispensable role of a free press when institutional oversight within the government weakens. And it is for this very reason that The Republic’s investigative report is such an honourable public service.

The Broader Pattern of Asset Mismanagement

The NHRC controversy is not an isolated incident, sadly, but rather part of a wider and systemic pattern of elite capture documented across Gambian governance. From the undervaluing and underselling of Jammeh’s assets to the dispossession of communal lands, arbitrarily changing the primary use of lands leased from communities without the communities’ consent, let alone awareness, a pattern emerges: connected elites systematically transfer public resources through opaque processes. When institutions meant to prevent such transfers instead obscure them, the issue transcends mere corruption, signifying systematic state capture, the repurposing of public institutions for private gain. This further entrenches elite power and undermines the principles of equitable governance.

Media Freedom Under Threat

Perhaps most worrying is the attempt to undermine journalistic integrity. By pressuring The Republic to issue a joint statement with Tambadou, effectively retracting their factual reporting, the NHRC and Media Council leadership demonstrated contempt for press freedom’s fundamental role in democratic governance. This action directly assaults a key pillar of vertical accountability. The implied threats of legal action, coupled with baseless insinuations that someone or some party bribed The Republic’s editor to produce the story, represent classic intimidation tactics on critical reporting. When human rights institutions themselves deploy such tactics, the democratic regression is particularly severe and signals a dangerous erosion of fundamental rights.

From Authoritarian Rule to Oligarchic Capture

The Gambia appears trapped in the “grey zone” between authoritarianism and democracy, a space where elections occur but elite networks obstruct genuine accountability. The formal trappings of democracy exist, yet power remains concentrated among those who can manipulate institutions for their own advantage, hindering true democratic consolidation. This situation represents not a clean break from Jammeh’s authoritarianism but its evolution into “competitive authoritarianism” or “electoral authoritarianism”: where democratic forms conceal essentially undemocratic substance. When human rights institutions protect the powerful rather than the vulnerable, this evolution accelerates, solidifying elite control.

A Crisis of Legitimacy

The chair of the NHRC has engulfed a profound crisis of legitimacy by his scandalous actions. How can an institution the state tasks with protecting human rights command public confidence when it actively undermines press freedom? How can it credibly investigate rights abuses when it demonstrates a willingness to shield powerful figures from accountability? This erosion of trust strikes at the heart of the institution’s mandate, rendering the position of its head untenable.

The Gambia Press Union’s call to remove the Media Council’s Executive Secretary is an important initial step, but more fundamental reforms are essential. The NHRC itself requires genuine structural independence, extending beyond its founding legislation, which Tambadou helped craft, to its operational reality. The resignation of the NHRC’s head would be a necessary first move towards rebuilding public trust.

Toward Genuine Institutional Independence

Recovering from this crisis demands several urgent interventions. The government must implement clear cooling-off periods to prevent revolving-door appointments between government positions and oversight bodies. Human rights institutions need independent funding mechanisms that shield them from financial leverage that might compromise their activities. Crucially, the NHRC currently appears to receive its funding primarily from the Government of The Gambia, alongside support from United Nations agencies and potentially other international partners; they need to structure this funding to guarantee the NHRC’s operational autonomy and prevent undue influence. Leadership positions within these institutions should be filled through transparent, merit-based selection processes rather than political appointments that create inherent conflicts of interest. Furthermore, The Gambia must substantively implement the Paris Principles, requiring independence of national human rights institutions, moving beyond mere rhetorical invocation. Finally, formal mechanisms should empower civil society to effectively monitor and evaluate the performance of human rights institutions themselves, creating an additional layer of accountability.

Conclusion: The Democratic Promise at Stake

The Gambia’s transition from Jammeh’s dictatorship initially inspired hope across Africa. However, this promise remains unfulfilled when institutions meant to safeguard democracy instead undermine it. The NHRC controversy reflects a broader crisis of post-authoritarian governance where formal institutions often serve to mask entrenched informal power networks.

As civil society organisations like the Gambia Press Union and Securing Futures continue to push for accountability, international partners must recognise that a functioning democracy requires more than elections and formal structures. It necessitates the substantive independence of its institutions and their consistent application of principles, irrespective of who stands accused. Ultimately, when human rights commissions act to shield the powerful rather than protect fundamental freedoms, democracy exists in name only, and the Gambian people deserve institutions that genuinely serve the public interest, not private ambitions.

Dave Manneh is Research Lead at Securing Futures: Land Rights Action Collaborative, a registered NGO-think tank hybrid based in The Gambia, committed to empowering Kombo’s dispossessed land-owning communities and advocating for equitable governance policies.

Dave Manneh
Research Lead
Securing Futures: Land Rights Action Collaborative

GCDA Plans Peaceful Protest Against Harsh Government Policies

Hadram Hydara
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0
GCDA Plans Peaceful Protest Against Harsh Government Policies

By Alieu Jallow

The Gambia Car Dealership Association (GCDA) has officially written to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), seeking permission to hold a peaceful protest against government policies that it claims are crippling the country’s automotive sector trade.

In a letter dated 8th May 2025 and signed by GCDA President Mr. Kutubo Mboob, the association stated: “Car dealerships, comprising legitimate car dealers across the country, are facing severe hardship due to restrictive policies, including specific issues—e.g., land issues, high import taxes, unfair competition, and lack of support for local businesses, etc.”

The GCDA intends to hold the protest on 15th May 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., along the route from Parliament House to the Arch in Banjul. According to the association, “The protest aims to express our grievances and seek government intervention to address these challenges.”

The letter also outlined key assurances to maintain order and public safety during the protest:

1. “The protest will remain non-violent and orderly.”
2. “We will cooperate fully with police directives to ensure public safety.”
3. “No destruction of property or obstruction of traffic beyond agreed parameters.”

The GCDA further requested the IGP’s office to provide “any necessary guidance to facilitate a lawful and peaceful demonstration,” and urged a timely response to allow for proper planning.

The request was acknowledged by an official from the Office of the Inspector General of Police, as confirmed by a handwritten note on the submitted letter.

The automotive industry in The Gambia has faced growing tension in recent years, with dealers lamenting steep import duties, regulatory uncertainty, and what they perceive as an uneven playing field that favours a select few.

Vehicles in The Gambia are predominantly imported second-hand, with many small- and medium-scale dealers relying on thin profit margins.

According to the Gambia Revenue Authority’s 2023 report, vehicle importation accounted for a significant share of customs revenue, but stakeholders say the increasing tax burden is unsustainable and risks forcing many out of business.

The GCDA’s decision to protest marks a rare but escalating form of advocacy from within the business community, signalling deeper frustration with a lack of dialogue and policy reform.

GAP Condemns Unauthorized Protest, Urges Unity and Lawful Reform

Hadram Hydara
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0
GAP Condemns Unauthorized Protest, Urges Unity and Lawful Reform

By Michaella Faith Wright

The Gambia Action Party (GAP) has condemned the recent unauthorised protest staged by a group identified as Gambians Against Looted Assets in Banjul, warning that such actions risk national peace and threaten democratic stability.

In a statement released by the Secretary General and Party Leader, Musa Ousainou Yali Batchilly, GAP emphasised that while public dissatisfaction is valid and reforms are needed, change must be pursued through legal and strategic means, not through force or unauthorised demonstrations.

“The method employed was not only unlawful but dangerously counterproductive,” Batchilly stated. He added that in a democratic society, the constitution remains the supreme guide, and any deviation from it invites chaos and instability.

Citing historical precedent, Batchilly reminded citizens of how former President Yahya Jammeh, despite ruling The Gambia for over two decades, was peacefully removed through the power of the ballot box. “There was no gunfire, no bloodshed, and no street war—only the collective will of a people exercising their democratic rights,” he said.

GAP has called on the youth and opposition members to resist calls for unauthorised protests, stressing that the cost of such recklessness is too high for a small nation like The Gambia. Instead, the party advocates for voter education, civic engagement, and national unity in the lead-up to the 2026 elections.

“What this country needs is not division or finger-pointing, but unity with a common goal,” the statement read. GAP also urged opposition leaders to set aside personal ambition for the greater national interest, noting that meaningful change is possible through lawful and organised action.

The party concluded its statement with a rallying call: “Let us organise, not agonise. Let us educate, not instigate. Let us vote, not vandalise.”

GAP reaffirmed its commitment to peace, progress, and the will of the Gambian people.

Sabally Slams NHRC Boss Over Alleged Media Comments

Hadram Hydara
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0
Sabally Slams NHRC Boss Over Alleged Media Comments

By Dawda Baldeh

Momodou Sabally has strongly criticised the Chair of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) following alleged comments made about an investigative report published by The Republic.

Describing the NHRC’s stance as “despicable and deplorable,” Sabally emphasised that his remarks reflect his personal views and not his official position.

In a Facebook post, Sabally expressed disappointment at the NHRC’s role in supporting press freedom, stating, “In an era where we are all trying to entrench press freedom and make sure the #truth and #justice guide our actions, it is sad to see those who are supposed to be the umpires and just referees for freedom of expression come on the side of the oppressors.”

He further asserted that the NHRC Chair is “on the wrong side of history” and noted that this is not the first time he has addressed concerns regarding the commission’s leadership.

Accompanying his post was a screenshot of a publication from The Standard Newspaper titled “GPU Condemns MCG, NHRC for Pressuring Journalists to Exonerate Tambadou.”
Sabally called for fairness and urged all branches of government to perform their duties without interference.

He concluded with a reference to the Holy Bible, stating, “You shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free.”

Turo Darboe Claims Misleading Information Led to Purchase of Jammeh’s Planes

Hadram Hydara
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0
Turo Darboe Claims Misleading Information Led to Purchase of Jammeh’s Planes

By Dawda Baldeh

In a recent interview with Eye Africa TV, Gambian businessman Modou Turo Darboe revealed that he was misled into purchasing aeroplanes previously owned by former President Yahya Jammeh.

His comments were in response to an investigative report by The Republic that scrutinised the sale of Jammeh’s properties.

Darboe stated that he had inquired about the ownership of the planes before making the purchase and was assured that they belonged to the government, not Jammeh. He expressed appreciation for the journalist’s efforts in uncovering the truth, emphasising that Gambians deserve transparency regarding the former president’s assets.

Regarding the Air Tractor, Darboe explained that he was initially unaware of its advertisement and learned about it through a partner who described it as a “small, scrapped plane” that no one wanted to buy.

After expressing interest in the aircraft, he later found out that his partner had lost interest, leaving him with no choice but to proceed with the purchase. Darboe denied any personal connections with Amadou Sanneh, the former finance minister, despite speculation to the contrary.

He recounted that he had sought confirmation about the ownership of the planes from airport staff, who reiterated that they were government property and not linked to Jammeh, which justified the finance minister’s decision to sell them. He mentioned that he placed a bid of $500,000 for the aircraft, which raised eyebrows among some observers.

Upon being informed that he was the highest bidder, he promptly completed the payment.
Darboe noted that the planes remain parked at the airport, and he had almost forgotten about the purchase.

Darboe expressed his motivation for buying the planes as a patriotic act, stating that he did not want foreigners to acquire Gambian assets. He confirmed that he purchased three planes for a total of $500,000.

In addition, Darboe voiced his frustration over The Republic’s continued use of his images, which he said have been distressing for his family and friends.

He indicated that he plans to hold a press conference upon his return to the country to present evidence regarding his claims and clarify his position on the matter. He reiterated that his decision to buy the planes was based on the belief that they were government property, not associated with Yahya Jammeh.

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