Halifa Sallah, spokesperson of Gambia’s new coalition government said he is still the adviser to President Adama Barrow.
“My role has not change as an adviser from the beginning to date,” Halifa Sallah said.
Mr Sallah was speaking at a press conference at Kairaba Beach Hotel Thursday after being persistently confronted with questions as to the reasons why he has not taken up cabinet appointment.
Although he did not give direct answers whether he would be part of the Cabinet but promised to make a press conference when the ministerial appointments are completed.
“I will call a press conference probably next week when I will answer your questions to my cabinet appointment,” he said.
Sallah emphasised that the executive powers is entirely vested in the president and not the other way round, saying ministers do not have executive powers but are appointed by the president.
“Governance is not about the executive but it is how you influence the executive in making decisions,” he said.
Sallah told journalist that the objective of today’s press conference was to inform the public about what the government is doing for the interest of transparency, saying government is working hard to put the institutions to work. He also said the president has been engaged in consultations to make the appointments base on proper qualifications and competence to fill the positions.
The Spokesperson explained the intentions of the government for electoral reforms especially the nomination fees of Presidential, Parliamentary and Ward Councillors respectively. “The president has expressed the desire to bring electoral reforms before the National Assembly,” Sallah explained.
Meanwhile, Halifa Sallah also mentioned the president’s concern about the recent car accident at Kitty Village at West Coast Region. He said investigations are ongoing and the driver who is from Niumi is helping the investigators.
He also confirmed that the remaining Cabinet appointments will be announced soon.
