LamToro News

04/08/2024

The Vice President of the Republic of the Gambia begins a working visit to Senegal. Muhammed B. S. JALLOW, who arrived in the early evening, was welcomed by Prime Minister Ousmane SONKO, with whom he will have a working session.
The Gambian Vice President is accompanied by a large delegation.

04/08/2024

Opinion: From Imposter Syndrome to Hubris Syndrome—President Barrow Teeters Tragically Towards Tyranny and Terrorism
https://lamtoronews.com/2024/08/04/opinion-from-imposter-syndrome-to-hubris-syndrome-president-barrow-teeters-tragically-towards-tyranny-and-terrorism/

03/08/2024

Late Alhagie Hamidou Saidy Football Tournament Kicks-Off Tomorrow
https://lamtoronews.com/2024/08/03/late-alhagie-hamidou-saidy-football-tournament-kicks-off-tomorrow/

02/08/2024

Marshall Security Officer Arrested for Stabbing Two Police Officers

Date: August 2, 2024

The Police have arrested Momodou Jallow, a 35-year-old local security officer from Marshall Security Company, for stabbing two police officers during an altercation while on duty at Brufut Villa guard posts on August 1, 2024.

The two officers sustained injuries and were rushed to Kanifing General Hospital for medical attention, where they are currently admitted and receiving treatment.

The weapon has been recovered, and the suspect is in custody, pending further proceedings.

Source: Gambia Police Force

Photos: The suspect in grey colour shirt and the stabbed officers.

01/08/2024

Global Properties CEO Tours Germany
https://lamtoronews.com/2024/08/01/global-properties-ceo-tours-germany/

30/07/2024

Murder Suspect Arrested In Basse

The police have arrested a suspect in connection with the alleged murder in Basse, reported in the early hours of Tuesday, July 30, 2024.

Following the discovery of a body lying in the streets of Basse, the police responded promptly and transported the body to Basse District Hospital for an initial medical examination.

An investigation into the circumstances has begun, and a suspect has already been taken into custody.

The public will be kept informed about the progress of the investigation.

Source:GPF

30/07/2024

President Barrow Acknowledges Public Concerns Raised Following Remarks Made at NPP Political Meeting

PRESS RELEASE

The Ministry of Information acknowledges the concerns raised following His Excellency, President Adama Barrow's recent remarks at the opening ceremony of the NPP political bureau in Brikama, WCR, on Saturday, 27 July 2024. We recognize the sensitivity of the public's reaction and wish to clarify that President Barrow's intentions are entirely benign and focused on the collective good of our nation.

First and foremost, we wish to reassure all citizens that President Barrow's statements were not meant to cause fear or division. The President expresses concern about any distress his words may have caused. His commitment to the well-being of every Gambian remains steadfast.

President Barrow's remark about continuing his leadership until the leader of the opposition party passes away was not intended as a threat or harm towards any individual or group.

Specifically, the President has no ill will towards Mr. Ousainou Darboe, the leader of the United Democratic Party.

The President remains dedicated to addressing the critical issues facing our nation:

Economic Stability: The President is relentlessly working to enhance the economic conditions for all citizens, His vision is to create a stable and prosperous environment where every Gambian can thrive.

Agricultural Support: With the rainy season upon us, the administration is bolstering support for farmers to protect their crops and secure their livelihoods. Agriculture, being the backbone of our economy, remains a top priority.

National Unity: Promoting peace, unity, and respect among all Gambians, regardless of political affiliations, is a cornerstone of this administration. We believe in the strength derived from our diversity and the power of unity.

Migration: Recognizing the challenges and dangers of irregular migration, the government is actively creating opportunities within the country to discourage risky journeys abroad.

Drug Abuse: Addressing the devastating impact of new drugs like 'Kush' on our youth and communities is a critical focus. The goverment is outlining comprehensive measures to combat this issue.

Democratic Consolidation: The President is committed and remains dedicated to political pluralism, free political expression, and all tenets of democracy.

We urge all Gambians to concentrate on these pressing matters and collaborate for the prosperity and stability of our beloved nation.

Let us organize, unite, and conquer these challenges together.

Source: Ministry of Information

29/07/2024

Minister Ismaila Ceesay and NPP’s Sulayman Camara and Barrow’s ‘Death Wish’ Remarks
https://lamtoronews.com/2024/07/29/minister-ismaila-ceesay-and-npps-sulayman-camara-and-barrows-death-wish-remarks/

29/07/2024

President Barrow’s alleged statement - Whither morality?

D. A. Jawo

There is a video trending on social media in which President Adama Barrow is reportedly saying that he would not relinquish power until Ousainou Darboe, leader of the United Democratic Party (UDP) is dead and buried. He is alleged to have added that he will attend Darboe’s funeral to confirm his death before considering stepping down and paving the way for a new president.
If indeed the video is genuine and he made such a statement against the UDP leader or any other person for that matter, this is beyond despicable and the lowest that a head of state would stoop down on the moral ladder.
Apart from the moral aspect, this type of language is also very much at variant with our societal norms and values, particularly when referring to someone he often refers to as his “father”.

We can all recall that when former President Yahya Jammeh got intoxicated with power, he used to make similar outrageous statements which led to a majority of Gambians despising him and eventually booting him out in 2016. Therefore, President Barrow should avoid making such morally offensive statements which can also lead to his own downfall.

May be one cannot blame his unnecessarily large cabal of advisers for such serious gaffes attributed to him, because he may not have discussed whatever he was about to say with them, but we expect them to discuss the matter with him immediately after so that he would avoid repeating such morally offensive comments in the future. We are also anxiously waiting to see what our vocal imams and religious leaders would say about it, considering how quick some of them are in condemning offensive statements directed at the head of state.

Therefore, if we go by what President Barrow alluded to, it is no longer about a term limit but we have to wait until after the death of Ousainou Darboe, even if he (Darboe) lives for more than a hundred years, for President Barrow to consider stepping down from power. Where are we heading to as a nation? What has happened to the socalled ‘National Dialogue’ that he himself initiated?

By indulging in such politics of intimidation against his opponents and critics, President Barrow is definitely not making life easy for his government. He had the opportunity to learn a lot of good lessons from former President Jammeh but it appears that as he also gets intoxicated with power, he is also committing the similar mistakes. He should however realise that after their bitter experiences with Yahya Jammeh, Gambians are no longer ready to allow any leader to become another monster in this country.

29/07/2024

HAPPY BIRTHDAY FATMA SALLAH

Join us in celebrating our sister Fatma Sallah's birthday. Happy birthday to you Fatma Sallah Ngarry Lamtoro Burr Gedeh. Wishing you long life and continuous blessings, borom Sweden. Enjoy your day and stay blessed!🎂🎁🎉🎈🥰😍

Best wishes
Team Lamtoro

29/07/2024

29/07/2024

Opinion: Adama Barrow might not inherently be a dictator, yet his unrestrained speeches, unguarded tongue and lack of prudent advisors and handlers could pose a threat to national security
https://lamtoronews.com/2024/07/29/opinion-adama-barrow-might-not-inherently-be-a-dictator-yet-his-unrestrained-speeches-unguarded-tongue-and-lack-of-prudent-advisors-and-handlers-could-pose-a-threat-to-national-security/

28/07/2024

Advert: Support a Gambian business

28/07/2024

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28/07/2024

POLICE INVESTIGATE ALLEGED SCAMMING AT GREEN POWER INVESTMENT
Date: July 28, 2024
The Gambia Police Force is currently investigating Green Power Investment, an alleged scamming enterprise, after numerous customers reported difficulties in withdrawing their invested funds, amounting to thousands of dalasis.
The police urge the public to exercise caution in business dealings and to provide any relevant information that may assist in the ongoing investigation.

Source: Culled from GPF

28/07/2024

I condemn Barrow's remarks against Lawyer Darboe. This is beyond politics and is uncalled for. Barrow needs to be told the truth.

28/07/2024

UDP’s Statement on President Barrow’s Hate Speech
https://lamtoronews.com/2024/07/28/udps-statement-on-president-barrows-hate-speech/

28/07/2024

Alagi Yorro Jallow Condemns Barrow's Remarks

Mamudu: The presidency demands a high level of responsibility, necessitating that its holders exhibit dignity and propriety. It was disconcerting to witness a video on social media where President Adama Barrow appeared to make disrespectful and unsuitable comments directed at a senior citizen and an opposition leader. It is imperative for President Barrow to exercise more control during his political engagements and speeches, resisting the influence of the crowd's emotions. His declaration implying that he would only step down from power upon the death of Ousainou Darboe is utterly unbecoming of a President, and such a statement ought to be withdrawn.
by Alagi Yorro Jallow

28/07/2024

Message from KM Mayor Talib Bensouda

Poverty in the country is at an all-time high, with many Gambians anxious about how to secure their next meal. A boat carrying 300 youths escaping the country’s hardships just capsized, with at least 150 of them feared dead, adding to the thousands before them.

A new hard drug called ‘Kush’ continues to destroy our youth and ravage our communities. There are no ID cards or driver’s licenses available in the country, and no Cashpower meters from Nawec. The rainy season is upon us, causing concern among farmers about their crops and residents about flooding.

Yet, President Adama Barrow, instead of addressing these pressing issues at a rally yesterday, repeatedly swore about the prospective death and funeral of a party leader and former Vice President, Ousainou Darboe and very disturbingly vowed to remaining in power until the death of another human being just because his your political rival.

The President’s insidious statements disrupt the peace, tranquillity, and stability of the country and must be condemned by all politicians, religious and well meaning citizens in all corners of this country.

What I heard is not a joke, not politics, and cannot be justified by anyone. Another sad day in Gambia.
Let’s do better!

Talib Bensouda
Mayor
Kanifing Municipality

28/07/2024

Dear President Adama Barrow,

As the leader of our nation, it is crucial to uphold the principles of unity, respect, and justice as enshrined in our constitution. Recent derogatory remarks made against members of the opposition, particularly the United Democratic Party (UDP), contradict the oath you took to protect every citizen, regardless of political affiliation.

Such statements not only undermine our democracy but can also incite division and hatred, which is detrimental to the unity we all strive for.

It is vital to recognize that those in opposition today, including former supporters, deserve protection and respect under your leadership.

Wishing harm upon any individual, especially those who have been part of your political journey, is both morally and legally wrong. We urge you to focus on pressing national issues like the rising cost of living, recent floods, erratic electricity supply, and increasing corruption and crime. Addressing these challenges is where your leadership should be directed.

We call upon your cabinet members and advisers to refute such inflammatory statements and counsel you towards constructive governance. The silence or support of such rhetoric only deepens societal divisions.

Lead with compassion, integrity, and commitment to the values of our constitution, focusing on the well-being of all Gambians.

Musa Ousainou Yali Batchilly
Party leader
Gambia Action Party

28/07/2024

Banjul Mayor Condemns President Barrow's Remarks

My fellow citizens, I greet you all in the most revered way, Asalamu Alaikum Warahmatullahi Ta Ala Wabatakatuhu. Today, I speak to you in my capacity as the Mayor of Banjul, as a mother, as a sister and as a friend. But most importantly, as a Gambian.

I listened to the president's statement in Brikama last night with shock, disappointment and concern. It is my strong conviction that the president's statement against H.E Ousainou Darboe, is unfortunate, untimely and unpresidential. H.E Daboe's contribution to the advancement of Gambia's democracy is unquestionable. He has dedicated his entire life to serving this nation.

In this country, we live as one people. And this we must continue to nurture. We must never allow politics to divide us such that we would wish death upon each other.

As political leaders, it is important to always be mindful of statements we make especially at public gatherings. For if there were to be chaos, women, children, the elderly and persons with disabilities who are the most vulnerable would suffer more. And as leaders we must never allow to create situations where we make their lives uncomfortable.

Therefore, I would implore on the president to withdraw his statement and apologize to H.E Darboe and the Gambian people for his unfortunate statement. I wish to also seize this opportunity, to encourage us all to continue to promote peace and avoid making such divisive statements. I pray that peace continues to reign in our dear country.

For the Gambiam Our Homeland.

ROHEY MALICK LOWE
MAYOR OF BANJUL
PRESIDENT OF REFELA AFRICA

28/07/2024

UTG Lecturer Condemns Barrow's Remarks Against Darboe

I join the rest of the Gambians to pray for the wellbeing of Alh. Lawyer Ousainou Darboe, a prominent figure in Gambian history. Generations and generations will come and go but his name will always be remembered in our political dynamics and history.
This is a man who in one way or the other, meaningfully contributed a lot in nation building throughout his legal career. Imagine the number of people he benefited who will always wish him prosperity and wellbeing.
May Allah The Almighty grant him long life and prosperity. May The Almighty preserve and grant him Tawfeeq in Dunya and Aakhirah. May The Lord of worlds rectify his past present, and future conditions.
Dr Alieu Gibba
University of The Gambia

28/07/2024

Message from Essa Faal
My Fellow Gambians,

I am deeply dismayed by President Adama Barrow's recent offensive remarks towards Hon. Ousainou Darboe, leader of the United Democratic Party. Such language has no place in our political discourse, and I stand with fellow Gambians in condemning this troubling statement.

While political differences are natural, they must not lead to vile remarks especially from a Head of State. It is crucial for leaders to uphold civility, respect, and decency, especially during times of political tension and economic challenges.

I wish for Hon. Ousainou Darboe's continued good health and long life as he contributes to our country's development.

Our nation deserves leaders who prioritize unity and understanding over division.

Essa Mbye Faal
Turnaround Movement

28/07/2024

Memorials are indeed a poignant way to celebrate the lives of sports figures who have left a lasting mark as both players and coaches. Today marks the fifth anniversary of the passing of Coach Peter Bornu Johnson, a revered football coach and former national team player. A tribute fitting for such a beloved figure could be: "A coach impacts more young people in a year than the average person does in a lifetime. Coach Peter Bornu Johnson has gone to play ball with the angels. He remains forever in our hearts."
Peter Bornu Johnson,
"His life was gentle, and the elements so mixed in him that Nature might stand up and say to all the world, 'This was a man!'"
Peter Bornu Johnson.
― William Shakespeare.
Coach Peter Bornu Johnson has left a lasting legacy in football, remembered for his contributions both on and off the field. Memorials and tributes often reflect the significant impact he had on the sport and the communities he engaged with. Peter Bornu Johnson's legacy is multifaceted, showcasing his influence as a player, coach, and father. He was a respected coach, notably for local league teams and the junior and senior national teams, sharing his knowledge and passion for the game. Beyond his professional achievements, Bornu Johnson's legacy includes the positive impact he made on the communities he was part of. Peter Bornu Johnson passed away on July 28, 2019, but his contributions to football continue to be celebrated and remembered. His life and career serve as an inspiration to many in the sports community in The Gambia. May Coach continue to rest in eternal peace.

by Alagi Yorro Jallow

26/07/2024

In memorial: The esteemed Gambian journalist Mr. Ebrima Cole, former Director of Information Services, passed away eight years ago. Today, we commemorate his memory and enduring legacy. His words and writings persist in inspiring truth, curiosity, and transformation. His mastery of the written word and his contributions to journalism are indelibly recorded in history's pages. From his pen flowed ink, and from his microphone voice, truth was carved into every line and sound. Ebrima Cole, the chronicler of lives, now lies beneath the sky stained with ink. A legendary broadcast journalist, a staunch advocate for press freedom, his skill and fervor continue to motivate journalists and writers worldwide. We are grateful for his relentless commitment to storytelling and the pursuit of truth. Ebrima Cole, who navigated unexplored waters and reached for the stars, sails on eternally, steered by curiosity and bravery. May Allah perpetually bestow upon him Al-Jannah Firdaus.

by Alagi Yorro Jallow

26/07/2024

Justice Alami Jawara Granted Leave Of Absence

ANNOUNCEMENT FROM THE JUDICIARY
The Judiciary of The Gambia wishes to inform the public that Hon. Justice Jawara Alami has been granted a leave of absence by the Judicial Service Commission in accordance with Section 04119 of the General Orders of The Gambia Government. Justice Alami has been an esteemed High Court Judge since June 2017, and during her tenure, she has also served as the designated Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Judge.
Justice Alami's contributions to the Judiciary have been invaluable, marked by her dedication, professionalism, and commitment to justice. As she prepares for this new chapter, we want to assure the public of a smooth transition.
To ensure continuity of our judicial processes, the Judiciary will take the following steps:
1. Delivery of Outstanding Judgments: All pending judgments from Justice Alami will be delivered before her departure.
2. Transition of Responsibilities: A seamless handover process will be carried out to transfer her duties and responsibilities to her successor, ensuring no disruption in the court's functions.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Hon. Justice Jawara Alami for her exemplary service and wish her all the best in her new role.

Source; Judiciary of The Gambia

25/07/2024

Gambia: Licenses of Five Commercial Radio Stations Revoked

25/07/2024

VP Jallow Launches Gambia’s NDC Implementation Plan

24th July, 2024 - The Vice President of The Gambia, H.E Mohammed B.S. Jallow launched The Gambia's Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) Implementation Plan (2021 - 2030), funded by the NDC Partnership. This ambitious plan aligns with the Paris Agreement targets and aims for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

VP Jallow emphasized The Gambia's commitment to climate action, despite its minimal contribution to global emissions. He highlighted the need for both domestic and international financing, urging collaboration from all stakeholders.

The Gambia’s National Development Plan 2023-2027, "Yiriwaa," focuses on innovative financing, including domestic resource mobilization and leveraging international climate funds. Notable achievements include the 23MW solar power plant in Jambur, commissioned in March 2024, which has created green jobs and boosted energy security.

The Hon. Minister of Environment, Rohey John Manjang, stressed that the NDC Implementation Plan is a comprehensive roadmap developed through extensive consultations. It sets specific targets for reducing emissions and enhancing climate resilience.
The UNDP and other development partners reaffirmed their support for The Gambia's efforts to build a climate-resilient and prosperous future.

The implementation plan is a bold and necessary step towards a sustainable future, leveraging international support, aligning with national development priorities, and engaging all segments of society to address the challenges of climate change and build a resilient, prosperous, and inclusive nation for all.

Source: Culled from Office of The Vice President

24/07/2024

Press Release From Lamin CDC Homeowners.
Urgent Call for Government Intervention: Eviction Threats on Lamin CDC Homeowners.

In 2013, the Asset Management Recovery Cooperation (AMRC) sold 282 plots of land in Lamin CDC, beside the Yundum Airport.

Most of those who purchased the land from AMRC acquired the necessary documents, including Title Deeds. In addition, many of those who acquired land in Lamin CDC constructed houses and settled in with families, some of them more than seven years ago.
On 17 July 2024, the office of the Honorable Sheriff of the Gambia issued an eviction notice to all compound owners in Lamin CDC, asking them to vacate their homes before 19 August 2024.

On 23 July 2024, another eviction notice, signed by the same office of the Honorable Sheriff of the Gambia, was distributed to all compound owners in Lamin CDC, asking them to vacate their homes before 23 August 2024. Since then, we have notified AMRC accordingly about the notice to vacate the properties we bought from their office.

We, the community members who bought the land from AMRC, a government institution established through an act of parliament, solidify it as a government entity that should be recognised as legitimate in conducting business transactions on behalf of The Gambia.

We, the community members of Lamin CDC, are here to inform the Government to take the necessary actions immediately, prevent the eviction, and shorten whatever issues they have with Bingna Able Thomas, the Personal Representative of the late David Able Thomas.

We call on the Gambia Government, under the leadership of H. E. President Barrow, to avert substantial potential social unrest within the community of Lamin. We trust the authorities will do the right thing at the right time!

Victims Taskforce Committee

24/07/2024

Former Lands Minister Abba Sanyang and Co face 27-Count Charges

By Kexx Sanneh, Kexx News

The State Law Office has increased the criminal charges against the former Minister of Lands, Regional Government and Religious Affairs, Sheriff Abba Sanyang from 21 counts to 27 counts. Abba Sanyang is charged together with one Pa Modou Jobe. Abba Sanyang was also a Governor of the Central River Region. Both accused persons were present in court.

The charges are 10 counts of Disobedience of Statutory Duty, 9 counts of Economic Crimes, 2 counts of Theft, 3 counts of Forgery and 3 counts of Uttering False Document.

The alleged offences happened between January 2022 and July 2022 in Janjanbureh, Central River Region. Abba Sanyang is accused of allegedly making payments to Sankulay Firm, registered and owned by his son.

The case was scheduled for today, 24 July 2024 but it could not proceed. The State failed to meet up with the court order to serve all the processes on the defence.

Senior Counsel E.R. Dougan, Counsel Saikou .L. Jobarteh and Counsel R. Jallow appeared for the State. Senior Lawyer Kebba Sanyang and Counsel B. Keita appeared for Abba Sanyang and Senior Lawyer Bory S. Touray represented Pa Modou Jobe.

Lawyer Bory S. Touray informed the court that he wasn’t served with the process, but indicated that he was ready to be served in court. Lawyer Kebba Sanyang informed the court they were served with the amended information while they were not served with all the documents, especially the statement of the accused persons.

Lawyer Sanyang said the court ordered on the 19th of July 2024 for the defence to be served with the receipts. He said receipts that they were served were not readable copies.

The presiding judge, Justice S. Aryee told the State that she was not happy with them because this is the third time service couldn’t be made. She ordered the State to provide readable receipts to the defendants.

The case was adjourned to the 24th of October 2024 for a hearing.

Source: Culled from Kexx News.