Gambian business tycoon, Amadou Samba has said that his longtime associate the former President Yahya Jammeh was an ‘inconsistent friend’ as he managed to survive the past 22 years under his regime.

The former state counsel cum businessman made these revelations at the commission of inquiry probing into the financial activities of the former President Yahya Jammeh and his close associates at the Djembe Beach Hotel, Kololi.

When asked by Commissioner Bai Mass Saine whether he was a close associate of the former president he answered in the negative.

“He was an inconsistent friend,” Amadou Samba told Commissioners.

The business tycoon refuted the allegations of being a business associate of the former president saying their relationship was based on friendship which he describe as ‘inconsistent’. He explained how he managed to survive the former President’s 22 year regime. He added that he was not his business associate and had never interfered with his power politics.

“That was how I survived his regime,” Mr Samba asserted.

“If you were his business associate he will take everything and send you to jail,” he added.

Samba described his relations with the former president as one that was only based on social relationship.

The business tycoon said he was already successful in business before he met the former president, saying he started cement importation since 1986. He explained several businesses he had including fishing with Moroccan partners saying they had 5 fishing trollers trolling the waters of Gambia, Senegal and Guinea Bissau exporting the catches to Las Palmas.

The lawyer turned businessman repeatedly complained about the speculations people are making about his past relations with the former president which he said is not fair because the former president used to take advantage of him which has cost him a lot.

“He will make unnecessary demands by asking me to borrowed him money which he will not return,” he said.

Mr Samba refuted the allegations of managing the former president’s businesses but instead was managing him to save his own life from danger.

“I never had any business relation with the former president or worked with him,” he interjected.

The business tycoon told the commission that the former president after he fell out with the late Baba Jobe wanted him to continue with the importation of rice, cooking oil and onions among others. He said the president told him that the Governor of Central Bank would facilitate things. He added that after the meeting with the former president, he went straight to the office of the then Governor, Clarke Bayo telling him to count him out.

“People always make allegations against me saying I have $900 Million of the former president,” he interjected.

Samba refuted this allegation saying it is unfounded for he had never shared accounts or transfer money to any of the former president’s accounts.

“It is my enemies who want to assassinate my character,” Amadou Samba told the commission.

He added: “That is money laundering.”

The former state counsel cum businessman confirmed to the commission that the former president was the one who purchased the Kairaba Beach Hotel, denying his involvement in the transaction. He refuted the testimony made by Momodou Lamin Sonko of M.A Kharaffi and Sons. He denied playing any part in the sale of Kairaba Beach Hotel to M.A Kharaffi and Sons. He said he never met Mr Sonko to discuss the sale of the said hotel.

“It has never happened,” he told the commission.

Samba said he is surprised how Sonko could put him in the picture when it was Lawyer Edu Gomez who signed the document.

“People always want to use my name,” he said.

The business tycoon revealed that the hotel was purchased through late Baba Jobe who appointed him as symbolic chairman of the hotel. He said the hotel was run by Baba Jobe and Robert Aswande.

Samba tendered bundles of documents including assignments, transfer shares from Baba Jobe and Lang Conteh to Millennium Industrial and General Trading Company, a company owned by the former president among others were admitted and marked as exhibits.

Mr Samba confirmed his membership of the former president’s political party and his financial support to the party.

When asked by Commission Counsel Amie Bensouda about the D3 Million transferred to his account from the Kanilai Festival tribute to Michael Jackson, he said it was used to purchase CFA for former president.

Meanwhile, former Solicitor General Pa Harry Jammeh and former GNPC Managing Director Momodou Badjie both appeared at the commission.

By Omar Wally

Three men have been arrested by personnel of Gambia Police Force, for allegedly stealing fuel at NAWEC Kotu Power Station.

Superintendent David Kujabi, Police public relations officer told The Fatu Network that following a tip off by a concerned citizen on suspected theft of fuel at NAWEC (Kotu Power Station), The Gambia Police CID in Kanifing mounted surveillance in the area.

“During the early hours of Monday 13 November, the professionalism and patience of the officers finally paid off.”

Kujabi said they arrested three men with five drums of 20 litres of gasoil loading them into a taxi with registration number BJL 9612 M. The suspects are, Essa Mbenga (Principal Suspect – Permanent Staff NAWEC), Lamin Samateh (GTTI Student on internship at NAWEC) and Yunusa Sowe (Taxi Driver).

Police PRO noted that the three suspects are in police custody and are currently helping the CID with their investigations. “Base on prima facie evidence at hand, the accused persons have been charged with Stealing, Contrary to Section 252 of Criminal Code, Cap 10:01 Vol. III Laws of The Gambia 2009.”

Kujabi: The Gambia Police Force reassures the general public of its unrelenting stance in ensuring the protection of lives and properties of all. He added that the Police will continue to count on the support of the citizenry in policing their beloved Gambia.

By Omar Wally

Superintendent David Kujabi, who served as Police public relation officer, from 2012 to 2015, is back as the new Police public relation officer. He replaced Assistant Superintendent Foday Conta, who is now his deputy.

David was credited for improving the relationship between the media and the police during his time as PRO.

In an interview with The Fatu Network, the outgoing PRO Conta now deputy PRO, said the reason for David coming back as PRO, is geared towards fulfilling the promise made by the Inspector General of Police to expand the Police PRO unit, during his first interview with GRTS.

“ With David’s experience, it is wise to bring him back in that position, so that I can work closely with him.”

Assistant Superintendent Conta said they are recruiting other people so that they can decentralized their regional spokespersons.

David’s Bio David holds BA English Language & Sociology – University of The Gambia 2005 – 2009 •

Higher Teacher’s Certificate – The Gambia College – April 2004

• Senior Secondary School Certificate – Fatima Senior Secondary School – 1998

• Certificate, Cadet Officers Course – Ghana Police College – August 2012

• Certificate, Cadet Development Course – The Gambia Police Academy – April 2011

• Certificate, Basic Police Training Course – The Gambia Police Academy – November 2010

• Certificate, International Police Officers Course (IPOC)-SWEDINT – 16 – 27 February 2015

• Certificate, Harmonized Approach to Cash Transfers to Implementing Partners (HACT), Sponsored by the UNDP, UNICEF & UNFPA Banjul, The Gambia – 24 – 25 June 2014

• Certificate, Training on Capacity building on Legal Matters affecting The Police – 9 – 11 June 2015

• Certificate, Integrated Induction Training – Elfasher, Darfur, Sudan – 26 to 29 July 2105 • Certificate, Safe and Secure Approaches in Field Environments (SSAFE) Training – Elfasher, Darfur, Sudan – 05 to 06 August 2015.

This correspondence occurs in response to a recent article by Madi Jobarteh impressing on the president to fill the aforementioned ministerial post as a matter of urgency. His was an insightful argument based on superbly constructed points rich in law. That said, my response is neither to disparage, nor a rebuttal per se, rather to construct a counter-narrative of institutional & portfolio arrangements in view of the country’s unique situation.

To back up his claims, Mr Jobarteh relied on section (71) of the constitution which concerns the appointment of Ministers. He rightfully argued that a President and a Minister cannot share the same position, hence those are ‘’mutually exclusive’’ cabinet posts. He also quoted sub-section (3) which authorized the President to appoint cabinet Ministers hence the President, nor his ministers should occupy more than one post at a time. He went on to draw attention to separate the vice-presidential portfolio from that of women’s Affairs – both vested in one as it stands.

Mr Jobarteh appeared quite hysterical in laying down his claims; but I suspect he is perfectly aware of further provisions within the statutory book drawing on secession. May I remind him that liberal democratic tradition and Gambian law dictates that in an event of unfortunate proportions, the president shall be succeeded by the vice president, or Speaker of parliament in that orderly. The Gambian people need to bear in mind that the constitution is entirely under review in an effort to iron out discrepancies and unjust laws arbitrary put. That calls for patience, since the final cut shall be subject to parliamentary debate and public plebiscite before adoption:

Still writing in the article, Mr Jobarteh paid particular attention to the vacant defence ministerial post. He seems convinced that the position must be filled, and that power removed away from the presidency. I, for one, see no urgency, or utility for The Gambia appointing a Minister of Defence. Folks, let’s be realistic, and to survey and prioritise needs in view of total transformation in motion. For starters, The Gambia is one of the smallest countries in the world, surrounded by Senegal on three sides. A peaceful, friendly and partnership growing stronger by the day. There is no need for military build-up or a hard-border line. As for in-coming threats from foreign fishing trawlers via the Atlantic Ocean, the Gambia need to rebuild & equip its navy in all aspects of strategic surveillance over Gambian waters.

For a new-Gambia, the emergent army should engage their Senegalese counterparts in collaborative training and cross-border security partnerships for a safe and secure region. In an unprecedented attempt at history – I call for the signing of a Senegambia Security & defence Pact. This shall encompass total protection of both countries and to come to each-others defence should a mutiny or foreign force invade. Such a pact is a deterrent to coup de’etat, drawing inspiration on the NATO alliance, albeit entirely drawn on separate terms based on international law and values underpin by local history.

I have always maintained that The Gambia does not need a large military force. To hasten professionalisation of the Security apparatus, the country need to build separate police, navy and military training academies of success. Another idea being for the Interior and Defence portfolios to be amalgamated into one post – ‘Ministry of National Security & Planning’. However, institutional separation of the army and police must maintain, with the new emergent army refocused on modern military methods in peace-keeping and peace-building duties supporting AU and UN missions around the world.

Gibril Saine    Twitter: @gibbysaine

By Alieu Ceesay

#OccupyWestfield Team said they remain firm and resolute in their resolve to exercise their right to assemble peacefully as guaranteed by section 25 of the constitution.

It was on October 26, when the #OccupyWestfield Team issued The Declaration of the Occupation of Westfield.

A statement was read on the urgent need for stability in the current water and electricity situation in urban Gambia. It then called on the public to converge with the team at Westfield to vent their frustrations in the form of a peaceful protest. This was to be the official birth of #OccupyWestfield as a team.

“After that call, the response has been immense. It trended on social media and across the streets. We then realized the need to get police clearance and permit for the occasion. We applied for a permit which was submitted at the police headquarters.

We were called in the following day for screening from the intelligence office. Again we were then called to meet with the IGP and Co. We held discussions on security details. But at the eleventh hour, our permit was denied,” Alieu Bah, a member of Team read out in a media statement on behalf of the Team on Sunday evening at West Field where the proposed protest was to take place.

The Police denied the Team permit to protest twice. During the process of reading out the statement, armed riot police arrived at the place, ordering the Team to dispersed with immediate effect amidst threatening words of arrest if they insist on staying.

Prominent among the Team were Rapper Killa Ace, Paradise FM Proprietor Haruna Drammeh, Salieu Taal and Raffie Diab of #GambiaHasDecided Movement.

Alieu Bah added, “Relentless in our call, knowing full well that ours is a right guaranteed by the constitution. We continued pushing for #OccupyWestfield even as the odds stacked against us.”

The day after meeting the Police chief, Bah went on, they were again ushered into another meeting. This time with the then Interior Minister, Mai Fatty.

A long negotiation ensued for the postponement of the protest. Citing security reasons again. He said they conceded and postponed; acting as responsible and mature citizens of the land.

“The following week we again met the minister but was cut short because he got called to an emergency meeting. We then rushed to the police headquarters where we had earlier in the day submitted a letter requesting security protection for our protest slated for this Sunday, the 12th.” Bah added that they again went through the screening process but this time around a clearance plus security protection was afforded for their proposed protest.

It was a joyous occasion for them all, he said, for they felt the constitution have been honored, which is what New Gambia should be about.

“On Saturday whiles we were busy preparing the logistics for the protest, a call came in from the office of the IGP. Again we have been summoned to a meeting. We got to the meeting only to be given excuses of counter demonstrations, the beach boys said they too are protesting at the beach in solidarity with us.

It was a shifting argument of excuses from the Security heads. A constant invention of boogeymen. Our clearance was then revoked.”

The revocation happened within 24 hours of its reception of the clearance. The excuses advances by the police, according to Bah, were neither genuine nor firm in the denial of their constitutional rights.

“We remain firm and resolute in our resolve to exercise our right to assemble peacefully as guaranteed by section 25 of the constitution. The police continue to invoke Section 5 of the Public Order Act which itself is unconstitutional and has been challenged in the supreme court of the Gambia.” He concluded, “We won’t cow down at the eleventh hour and let draconian laws win over the constitution.

We stand in solidarity with the supreme law of the land and most of all our human right to gather in peace and protest.”

PRESS RELEASE, GAMBIA POLICE FORCE

The office of the IGP regret to inform the General public that the permit issued by the office of the IGP to team #OccupyWestfield for a proposed demonstration, slated for Sunday 12th November 2017 between 15:00hrs to 18:00hrs has been revoked till further notice.

This action by the police is necessitated due to security intelligence report which has posed security concerns.
Therefore, the general public especially parents are urged to advise their family members to desist from taking part in the demonstration. Anyone found wanting will be dealt with according to law.

The office of the IGP solicit the understanding and usual cooperation of the general public especially the organisers of #OccupyWestfield.

By Omar Wally

The outgoing Police Public Relations Officer, Assistant Superintendent Foday Conta, has confirmed to The Fatu Network, that the permit issued to the organizers of #Occupy Westfield team has been revoked.

Organizers of #Occupy Westfield initially applied for a permit to protest against lack of adequate electricity and water supply, but were denied one citing security reasons. The Police then took a U-turn and grant them permit, but a day before the event, the permit was revoked.

ASP Conta said the Police realized that there are some security concerns reason why the permit was revoked until further notice.

“ When everything is put under control, they will be issued a permit.” He concluded

By Jamal Drammeh

Polarity is the natural law that unites the ‘opposing’ forces or elements of nature to allow existence, and to maintain creation. It is the regenerative force that supports life and maintain balance in the universe. Within this principle – is also the law of duality, cause & effect and the law of gender – uniting male and female, and hence ensure continuity for humanity. This sublime law is also loaded with subtleties, nuisances and contradictions.

People generally want to distinctly classify everything and every person into a precise column – and label them. Society wants to marked and stamped each one of its members with a fix identity. A person is expected to be against something or for something; to be for government or against government.

Nevertheless, this very impulse goes against the workings of nature, from which society proceeds and by extension – government.

Our dislike for nuisance is manifested in all areas of our lives. We are quick to turn our admirations to idolatry; quick to become zealots in defense of our philosophical leanings; and quick to turn our political affiliations into fanaticism. Our debates are convulsive because of mean motives. Our words fall on deaf ears because they’re often loaded with malaise or hypocritical tendencies. Too many talents are wasted because we seek not to inform and inspire, but to demean and demoralize. Good measure of our intellectual prowess remain dormant because of our love of parroting other men’s thinking – instead of communicating our own.

The question still remains; how does one support and oppose a government simultaneously?

Another contradiction which begs for an answer is; if the very creation of government implies that man, if left completely free, cannot be trusted with the government of his own affairs without injury to others. This made it reasonable to ask – how then can society choose few amongst them, equally fallible, and entrust them with immense clout to rule over them?

Does this precept also imply that – people in power are better humans than the rest of us?

The simple answer to this last question is a simple. NO.

The object of this series remains to be an attempt at answering these pertinent questions, and to examine the very concept of ‘opposites’ in society and governance – and to examine this very seeming contradictions that makes society possible.

In other words, an attempt to communicate the incommunicable; subtleties, nuances and ‘apparent’ contradictions. Words and language are insufficient to communicate subtle precepts and nuances, but where I fall short with words – I’m hopeful the sentiments will nevertheless be rendered in a sufficient measure.

In our political discourse; one is often expected to fully embrace a certain party line or condemn it altogether. One that refrains from party affiliation, is at best viewed with suspicion, and at worst, held at contempt.

If we take nature for reference, society will not lose its noble ways and turn civic responsibility into a mere spectacle. Like the law of polarity; the spirit of resistance to government must always run parallel to the ebullient support of government. It is this spirit of resistance that keeps governments aright and responsive to the demands of the society.

Government is the machine that a society creates to execute her will; but government not being a pedant, society shall remain vigilant and mindful to the possibility of this machine going rogue. The power to restrain it must be readily available. For government often gains in decorum but not in principle.

The ultimate power is with the people, but they must be aware of it to make it useful. The fountain that fuels the machine called government, is supplied by the citizens. This is true in every society, but the constitution of a democracy specifically charter the citizens as custodians of this sacred fountain from which real power proceeds. Any other way by which force is exhibited in governance is only an extemporaneous half possession.

The vote and the voice of the individual citizen, the right to peaceful assembly, and the active participation in the political discourse are the outlet of this true power. These are the sources of all legitimate power in a democracy. The proper use goes to ensuring effective governance and shaping of a better society. There improper use or lack thereof can be detrimental or be weaponized to suppress dissent, or worse, facilitate the destruction of society.

The world is not short on examples of governments dominated by widespread corruption and unscrupulousness across government agencies and public enterprises. This attitude is observed around the world, though at varying degrees. Our political systems promote nepotism, cronyism and wasting of the country’s resources. The corruption of public officials also goes to undermined the legal systems in the quest to guile their crimes.

Citizens always feel this betrayal by the people in power; this sentiment goes to erode their confidence in government and its stewardship of the state affairs. As a consequence, citizens lose their sense of duty and obligations to state.

This in turn, breeds laziness, slovenliness and intellectual prostitution amongst the citizenry. So the citizens are pained to take civic duties seriously or even pay their taxes, and at worst, some become rebellious anarchists. This attitude of the society then goes to further furnish the government’s standing vices of corruption, favoritism, nepotism and cronyism as the cycle continues…..

To break this cycle; enough members of the society must demand it and work to make it happen by persisting on their demands. Fundamental or structural change in governance only comes about from the direct action of the people. This is because civil society forms the conscience of a nation, which goes counter to the basic instinct of the people in power. Self-preservation. People in power will not work to relinquish any of their mechanical advantages.

Without the constructive engagement and the resistance of the people to safeguard their liberties – every democracy is a tyranny in waiting. If modern history taught us anything about dictatorship; they all emerge from democracies.

Resistance is the centerfold of a vibrant democracy; it embodies the ingredients to protect it from becoming a dictatorship. It is easy to say; ‘never again!’ – but unless this spirit of resistance continues in parallelism to the evolution of the government; it still remains a dictatorship in waiting.

Democracy is still an experiment; the best it can supply has to come from the society. Each society writes its practical laws and the dictates of its democracy by the conduct of the citizenry. There is no perfect model for democracy; each nation must weave its cobweb of governance around the virtues and the values of the society. It must also uphold the inalienable rights and dignity of all of its citizens regardless or race, tribe, culture, creed or religion.

In quest to this noble end, one principle that should never be compromised is – justice for all of its citizens. It is the duty of every decent person to stand for justice and prevent injustice and injury to his fellows. The conscience of the people is indispensable in ensuring fairness and proper application of the nation’s laws and constitution.

Laws and constitutions are always arbitrary, and are never absolute. Misappropriation of the laws and the constitution by the state must always be resisted by the people. No unjust laws are worth the paper they’re written on, much less be respected by a mortal. The grandeur of justice over all human affairs cannot be overemphasized.

“In the absence of justice, what is sovereignty but organized robbery?” -St. Augustine.

Another hindrance to effective government and civil society is bigotry and intolerance. These social ailments cannot be eliminated without the active participation of a significant portion of the stakeholders in the society.

Government, private and public institutions, and the individual citizens have to be vigilant in combating intolerance and other moral turpitudes and ‘intellectual’ diseases which can’t be legislated away. To fight bigotry and intolerance; we must be accountable to one another.

Another impediment to a civil and more prosperous society is the simp pride of nationalism and xenophobia. This is a disease of the intellect that can quickly devolve into demagoguery and can lead to mutiny.

“Nationalism is an infantile disease. It is the measles of mankind.” – Albert Einstein Nationalism, of any value, is to support your countrymen in the course of justice and common good. To support government when it deserves it, but to go against when it when it betrays the sacred trust for which it is empowered. To defend the nation against all domestic and foreign aggressions.

Governments are also quick to exploit faux nationalism if it serves their base motives and have nothing better to offer to the masses. The old trick of the elite, the powerful and the government, is to exploit the diversity of the members of the society when it serves their interest. To arouse anger among ethnicities, religious groups and other subsets within the society in order to gain leverage.

Unfortunately, there are always willing enablers among all groups to promulgate such vile acts. Unless there are voices to appeal to our better instincts by direct actions, there is no hope for a civil society.

The fate of a democracy is determined by the people; democracy survives not by the efforts of a government but through the stupidity of those who work to destroy it. But there has to be people standing on guard to take advantage of their stupidity in attempts to subvert justice or to undermine democratic principles.

To be loyal to ones nation all the time is noble, but loyalty to the course of the country through the government should always be conditional. To be continued……

@jamaldrammeh

By Sheriff Kora

Tyler, Texas

Gambia’s democratic transition is back in the limelight, and the political debate this time is not centered around the callousness of a bloodthirsty dictator. The discourse and fury is focused now on a plethora of issues ranging from the practice of selective bias, the use of identity politics to advance the tribal interest of the majority party in power, electricity crisis, and expediting the process to bring transitional justice. As citizens, we will always have varied interest and different levels of urgencies on how the government should deliver public goods. It is beneficial for our political leaders running the government to listen to and learn from the relevant complaints of the citizens.

The recent public clamor and exchange of competitive ideas has not been scarce within the new democratic dispensation in The Gambia. Many will applaud this development as a trophy of our hard earned victory against the former regime that was intolerant to dissent and freedom of expression. As a liberated country, our political actions prove that we have taken it upon ourselves to hold our government accountable where we deem necessary. Following the banter on the online media, whilst some were very logical and decent, others even where relevant the language and mode of delivery reduced their legitimacy. I’ll court controversy to say that some of the comments were nothing but toxic and inappropriate. This brings us to the importance of reminding ourselves that freedom of expression also comes with certain duties and responsibilities. It is quite true that were dictatorship demands consensus and silence, democracy begs for voice and dissent, however in this new found freedom of ours, it is wise that our demands be guided by common sense and logic, and not anger.

The recurring indecency makes one wonder what could be so delightful in insulting or dragging our political leaders in the mud as we have seen in recent debates. We have countless evidence of what unfettered democracy has unraveled in countries around the world and Africa in particular. For most of Africa shortly after independence the optimism of many citizens and Pan Africanists fizzled, giving way to the challenges and effects of the age old divisive politics exercised by the colonial masters. Citizens with high and illogical expectations of their governments took to the streets, leading many countries into civil strife. To sustain themselves in power, most African liberators transformed themselves into dictators. Ultimately, military coups erupted, curtailing the evolution of democracy in many countries. Democracy needs to be respected. It is a political energy, and like any other energy, if you don’t respect it and harness it properly, it can destroy.

This is not an argument against democracy, but rather a reminder that no democracy wins without social cohesion.  Besides, although democracy is a necessary condition for sustainable economic development, democracy in itself is not a sufficient to ensure that a country will witness dramatic economic economic development once it adopts it. There are dictatorships around that world that outperformed liberal democracies in economic growth and infrastructural development. We all have different expectations of what we will like to see in the new Gambia – an aspiration that is natural within citizens, however, it might help to also remind ourselves that it is easier to break things than to fix. It is important to understand that although the APRC has been voted out of office, what that repressive regime left in our country is nothing but surmountable political problems and economic challenges. After 22 years of utter economic mismanagement, our desired goals will not be achieved overnight. The wounds might heal, but the scars are still there. We have great challenges ahead that will not be solved by mere rhetoric and condemnation of our political leaders.

The intent here is not to stifle debate or dissent. I believe debate is a key element of democracy. It fosters the exchange of ideas and illustrates our common interest. However, a protracted political debate that leads to gridlock or one that drowns the voice of those with relevant ideas is not healthy for the development of any country. Freedom fighters and liberation movements often perform two functions: to free citizens ‘from’ tyranny and ‘to’ empower them to realize their self-worth and to reach their maximum potentials.  Leading up to the last elections, the unity and untiring effort of Gambians was undoubtedly, the envy of many oppressed people around the world. We pulled our resources and efforts together to free our country from the clutches of dictatorship and we won. We have liberated the country politically, and now the onus lies on us to harness the same creative energy and unity of purpose towards social and economic initiatives that uplift the ordinary Gambian out of the problems associated with cyclical poverty.

There is a clear need to form a common theme around finding sustainable solutions to issues such as energy, transportation, health, irrigation, education, poverty, environment, and youth unemployment. If this government fails, we all fail as Gambians irrespective of tribal affiliation or political ideology. Talk is cheap, what we owe the Gambia is our collective action, not the sing-song and gibberish of so-called political pundits and policy wonks influenced by sublime mysticism and a crippling shortsightedness of the economic woes and intractable sustainable development challenges The Gambia and ordinary Gambians face.

The need for patience cannot be overemphasized in our current political situation. If we could divert some creative energy and sound ideas into addressing social and economic development issues, and refrain from exclusively focusing on the tribalism and divisive politics of late, our efforts will certainly make a big difference. It will help to create a space that complements efforts of the government and also helps to fill some of the resource gaps on the ground. Government is complex and messy, and no government can change this fact. Politics on the other hand is flexible and can be improved overtime to allow change to happen. Asking the Barrow administration to immediately solve structural problems that have worsen over 22 years of irresponsible governance and treachery is asking for the impossible.

Fajara, 10^th November 2017

PRESS RELEASE

The General Public is here by informed that His Excellency, Mr. Adama Barrow, President of the Republic of The Gambia, acting under the provision of Section71 (4) (b) of the Constitution of The Republic of the Gambia, has decided to relieve  Mr. Mai Ahmad Fatty of his appointment as Minister of The Interior with effect from today, Friday, 10 November 2017.  Mr Fatty has been re-deployed to the diplomatic service.

In the same vein, His Excellency, the President has assigned the Attorney General and Minister of Justice Honourable Abubacarr M. Tambadou to oversee the Ministry of The Interior until further notice.

Lawyer Chime, the defense counsel of former NIA Director General Yankuba Badjie has said his client will not succumb to trial by surprise.

Chime made objection to the state prosecutor to called on the 3rd prosecution witness to give testimony without serving witness statements to the defense, saying the prosecution should serve them with witness statements as directed by the court.

“We will not succumb to trial by ambush,” Lawyer Chime submitted.

The lawyer of the former NIA Director General said it is principle in criminal trial not to be taken by surprise but was interrupted by the Prosecutor General, Antouman Gaye who told the court that they are serving the witness statement to the defense while he was talking.

Lawyer Chime submitted that the witness statements should not be serve in a piecemeal but it should be rather filed in a bundle.

Lawyers P. Gomez and Ibrahim Jallow, counsel of former NIA Deputy Director General Louis Gomez and counsel of former NIA Operation Director, Sheikh Omar Jeng associated themselves to the submission made by the lawyer of the first accused respectively. Gomez referred the court to section 24 (3) of the 1997 Constitution. Jallow also cited the same section among others.

The State Prosecutor, Lamin S Camara in his respond said the objection made by the defense is misconceive, saying they have confused civil case with a criminal trial.

“They have given over elastic definition of section 24 (3) of the constitution,” Lamin S Camara said.

He referred to several provisions of the Criminal Procedure Code including sections 175 C (b) and 237 (2) among others saying the objection lacks merit.

Meanwhile, the trial judge made ruling in favour of the defense telling the prosecution to file witness statements and facilities to the defense prior to the case and not on the day of the case.

Subsequently, the case was adjourned till tomorrow, for hearing of the 3rd prosecution witness.

By Omar Wally

Despite the controversy over her appointment as the country number 2, Fatoumatta Jallow Tambajang is the first Gambian to be appointed by President Adama Barrow. The announcement of her appointment came after President Barrow disclosed on TFM (Senegalese Televison) that his VP pick is a female.

Until the upper age limit was removed by National Assembly members and her appointment confirmed, Tambajang was overseeing the office of The Vice President and ministry of Women’s Affairs.

In delivering her statements after taking the oath of office as the country’s Vice President on Thursday, Tambajang commended President Adama Barrow, for trusting, motivating and guiding her to be resilient to the trials and tribulations of her eleven months journey.

“I thank my entire colleagues of Coalition 2016, the bedrock for our democratic change, for entrusting me with the leadership in its creation and strengthening.”

She added that the national strive to champion the liberation of political prisoners and other innocent citizens, including leaving home at 5:30 am for prison visits, hospital visits and attending Yahya Jammeh’s orchestrated Kangaro courts during many trials of the citizens, has also been both challenging and rewarding.

“ I got stranded many times on the road side and was picked up and dropped off by His Excellency President Adama Barrow, this is because many at that time won’t give me a ride. I am forever grateful to you, Your Excellency for this humane and courageous gesture.”

Madam Jallow Tambajang said the brave man or woman is not he or she who is not afraid, but he or she who conquers that fear. “To be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others”

She said democratic process has matured in The Gambia and that they are committed to nurturing it. “For two solid decades, our nation has faced enormous challenges as a result of bad governance by the dictatorial regime of Yahya Jammeh”. She added that Gambians as peace loving people fought against it in a matured and resilient way.

She noted that today the country embarks on a new democratic journey.

“Our inspired, talented, ingenuous and patriotic fellow Gambians, are ready to work with our Government to transform our country into a democratic model in the world through constitutional, political, legal, economic, social, and security reforms. “

The Gambian Vice President, Her Excellency Madam Fatoumata Jallow Tambajang, is scheduled to meet with victims of human rights violations at the Victims’ Center on Wednesday, November 8, at 10:00 a.m.

The Center is located at the Commit Building in Kotu.

Representatives of Gambia Center for Victims of Human Rights Violations, #Jammeh2Justice Campaign, and Coalition for Change – The Gambia (CCG) are hosting the event.

All victims of abuses under the previous regime are invited to this opportunity to interact and exchange ideas with the Vice President.

For further information, please contact:

Dr. Amadou Scattred Janneh at 295-9954

Ya Mamie Ceesay (J2J) at 392-1747

Ayesha H. Jammeh (GCVHRV) at 782-4013

Zainab FaalBiram (CCG) at 751-8068

I write with scathing rage as to the high level of drugs abuse and that of prostitution among the country’s youths tearing-down lives & families apart. In the last ten or so years, there has been an explosive rise in the number of young people using drugs and such addictive stimulants leading to high waves of crime across the country as consequence.

Among young women, prostitution is directly linked to substance abuse. To feed that habit, which don’t come cheap, these girls turn to the ‘night-life’ putting their body and dignity on line in exchange for cash. In Gambia’s case, there is a somewhat subtle side to the story often overlooked. Evidence has shown that some of these girls turn to prostitution, not due to drugs, but to put food on the table for their families, pay school fees, or to meet such financial constraints. That is the shameful reality Yahya Jammeh has subjected young Gambian women to. For no fault of their own, girls are left hanging onto streets to find sources of income by whatever means necessary. That was a decrepit of duty in stark violation of the social-contract on the part of APRC leadership, for which it should stand trial.

Still, a stunning coincidence that cocaine is readily available & all too prevalent on Gambian streets. That is quite painful & to contemplate how the country came to be turned loop-side down and dirtied; tainted by immoral characters. In trying to psychoanalyse Yahya Jammeh – I found a foolish man, although one far from stupid. He sees losing young Gambian men through drug-addiction or the back-way journey into Europe a win-win, thus encouraged. To him, the more ‘destroyed’ youths, the less opposition or adversaries to his misrule, allowing for perpetual grip onto power. That is why APRC never had any credible drug-policy, nor a handle on the back-way menace.

Zero Tolerance Drugs Policy –  As a matter of urgency, every single police officer, army and other personnel across the country’s security sector must be subjected to drug tests. This should be a periodic & random exercise given history of substance abuse among serving members of the security personnel. If the Gambia is to professionalise the entire security apparatus, she must weed out criminals so as to inculcate morality & for the return of public confidence.

Recollecting a scene on independence-day 2017, a youth-man was cautioned to put off a marijuana joint as President Barrow took to the podium at the independence stadium. ‘’Leave me alone, it’s democracy’’, he protested, conflating ‘rights’ with the ‘law’. Despite the new dispensation, the Gambian people ought to know that there are limits to human rights. Your ‘rights’ should not infringe on mine, or the ‘general peace’. That include protecting the population against certain acts considered ‘rights’ elsewhere, such as drugs, homosexuality and pornography – I strongly encourage the administration to condemn & criminalise harsh punishments against all three.

In 2004, Portugal was face with a drug epidemic with soaring death rates among the population. The Lisbon-government quickly mobilised treatment programs across major towns and cities accompanied by effective media campaigns, and soon the problem was remedied. Today, the United States too is face with an uphill battle against opioid crisis across ‘Southern States’ with untold death counts. Nothing good ever comes off drug use which parents must constantly drill into their kids.

Solutions – The government, through the Ministry of Health, should offer free treatment programs to addicts help recover from addiction nightmares. It is the responsibility of government to help its citizens in times of desperate need. Yes, the addicts are Gambian too, our neighbours and neighbours maybe. The Minister of Health, Saffiatou Lowe, appear missing in action, and must stand counted with better ideas for reform.

As for prostitution, a similar program is of urgency to help young women and girls fallen victim to sex crimes over the years. Again, the Ministry of Health should have been at the forefront to help all victims in recovery. Similarly, prostitution should be criminalized and for a nationwide campaign by various women-led groups in the country to both sensitize and educate young girls on their rights & learning new skills.

The coalition-government should further strategize as to training programs & to expand opportunity. That include educational, jobs and sports programs to engage our young people away from ‘harmful’ streets. I further enjoin the line-Ministry & that of Health respectively to come forward announce what plans there are to help ‘lost youths’ of the Jammeh-years back into productive members of society.

The menace of Semesters – It would be wise for individual diaspora members to rearrange thought & priorities bordering on behaviour during those short trips visiting home. Research has shown that fake-lifestyles, promises and wild-theories about Europe is having detrimental influence on Gambian youths. Hard-Work pays: Nothing is given: should be the message instead of idle talk on impressionable minds. Yes, responsibility, even in chatter!

Today, technology has led to the invasion of ‘Western Lifestyles’ on our traditional way of life. Parents, and ultimately government, should gauge the good & bad of that and weigh how much of it to absorb into homes. In a digital age, the media regulatory watchdog should redefine its role as to standards and safety controls. Parliament ought to mobilise put a ban on pornographic activity if government is serious about protecting young girls and to clean up the bad image levied against the tourism industry. In other to reduce crime & other societal gaps, the Ministry should go back to the drawing board formulate plans to reinvent the country’s proud culture & smart ways to protect young girls from sex predators & harm-imposing cultures. The President also need to speak up address the crises facing the youths. I further encourage him to read President Jawara’s autobiography ‘’Kairaba’’ and such books on African history – reflective learning whilst leading.

Gibril Saine  Twitter: @gibbysaine

In the New Gambia, we envisage a kind of police services that is apolitical and non-partisan and only dedicated to the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms. The function of the police is to defend human rights at all times. This is why the police investigate, detect and prevent crimes and apprehend and prosecute criminals whose only intention is to infringe on the rights of others. In the same vein it is the role of the police to ensure that those who wish to exercise their rights have the space and freedom to do so without infringing on the rights of others.

In this regard it is therefore utterly concerning that the Gambia Police Force decided to deny a group of citizens whose intention is to occupy Westfield for the purpose of expressing their dissatisfaction with the state of electricity supply. The right to protest peacefully and without the use of arms is an entrenched clause in the Gambia Constitution. In that same law, the police, as an organ of the Executive are mandated under Section 17 to defend all the rights stipulated in Chapter 4 entitled ‘Fundamental Rights and Freedoms’.

The news that the police expressed security concerns as their reasons to deny the protestors a permit is untenable. Security concerns have always been a convenient cover for governments that seek to curtail civil space and activity. Unless the Inspector General of Police lays out the details, there has not been any official report yet either from the Executive or the Parliament that there is a looming threat facing the Gambia. Hence how would a protest by citizens about the delivery of a public good lead to violence or threaten the security of the Gambia?

Just a few days ago, we witnessed various political parties organize massive rallies, yet there was no security concern raised. One of those parties in fact was the APRC, which is the most recent ruling party of the Gambia. Why didn’t the IGP deny the APRC and later the UDP to hold a rally because of security concerns? Has the IGP and the Executive ever reported any incidents involving either internal or external forces seeking to destabilize the Gambia? If so, let the Gambia Government tell citizens what threats this country faces.

The IGP must be told not to raise false alarms just to suppress fundamental freedoms. Since taking office many months ago this IGP has never held a press conference or issued a public statement on the state of security in the Gambia. In the absence of such public information where then is the security concern? By claiming security concerns the police is therefore causing fear among Gambians and projecting the country as unstable to the international community. But is that really the case or the IGP is merely protecting the Government from dissatisfied citizens?

The denial of a permit is also further concerning given that the Minister of Justice just declared at a public forum on transitional justice on October 28 at UTG that his ministry would not enforce those laws that infringe on fundamental rights and freedoms. He cited the Public order Act among those laws. In fact the Public Order Act was among the list of laws that Barrow mentioned in his manifesto that he would repeal within six months of taking office. Yet the Barrow Administration is 10 months old today without any sign of law reforms!

I wish to therefore urge the IGP that he must rescind his so-called denial of permit and ensure that he provides the necessary security to protect both protesters and the general public. These citizens have a right to express their dissatisfaction with the government for any reason they deem fit. It is their choice that is guaranteed by the constitution. The job of the police is not to deny them their choice by hiding behind vague security concerns but rather to open the space for enjoyment of rights.

What all Gambians must understand and be concerned about is that when we allow the Government to take such decisions then we are effectively allowing it to close civil space and limit our rights. Today it is #OccupyWestfield, tomorrow it might be another group of people intending to express their issues and concerns. If we allow the IGP and the Government to refuse this protest, then we are giving them the power to refuse any other public demonstration in this country. We must bear in mind that it is through such civil disobedience activities that a society nurtures democracy and ensure good governance. It is such actions that will ensure accountable leadership and make public instititons become transparent, efficient, and responsive in the performance of their functions.

This decision by the police does not serve the Barrow Government at all. Here is an opportunity that they have lost if they had allowed this protest to go on, which could have further strengthened this Government morally and politically. It will serve to enhance citizens’ sense of security. More importantly it will diffuse some of the grievances in citizens as a result of the dire electricity situation. Hence Barrow lost another opportunity to cement his leadership and ensure greater security within the Gambia by denying this permit. Therefore Barrow must be advised to ask his agencies to consider all factors quite critically before they take certain decisions lest they injure the Government further.

For those citizens who claim that this protest is not necessary because NAWEC and the Government had said they are addressing the energy crisis must bear few things in mind. Just as one thinks this protest is not necessary so also do others thing it is necessary. Both camps are not necessarily right or wrong because both camps are merely exercising their right to freedom of opinion. Let us bear in mind that there is no right or wrong time to protest in a democracy. What appears to you as unnecessary and premature may appear to another as urgent and necessary.

Thus if you claim that a particular protest is not necessary rest assured that when your time comes to also protest others may find it also unnecessary. Thus let us recognize those interested to protest as their right even if we disagree with their reasons or will not join them. Let us not call for their protest to be stopped or denied.

God Bless The Gambia

Justice Kumba Sillah Camara of the Banjul High Court has revoked the bail of Lamin Lang Sanyang, former medic of the notorious National Intelligence Agency NIA.

Sanyang is the ninth accused person standing trial with eight former officers of the agency for the murder of Solo Sandeng, a political activist who was allegedly tortured to death in custody.

The bail was revoked due to the amended charges which includes liability to life imprisonment.

The motion was moved by the lead prosecutor which was not objected to by the defense. He was escorted along with the other accused persons to remand wing of the State Central Prisons.

Meanwhile, the case has been adjourned to Monday, October 6, 2017.