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06/03/2025

NHRC Raises Concern Over National Assembly Vote Blocking Diaspora Voting Rights

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has expressed concern over the National Assembly’s recent vote on the Elections Bill 2021, which effectively prevents Gambians in the diaspora from participating in elections. In a statement, the NHRC noted that the vote, held on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, rejected Clause 14 of the bill, reversing previous commitments by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) and the government to facilitate diaspora voting ahead of the 2026 Presidential Elections.

“The right of Gambian diasporans to participate in elections and public affairs has been a subject of national discussion since 2017,” the NHRC stated. “Both the IEC and the Government of The Gambia have on numerous occasions assured the public that measures would be taken to facilitate diaspora voting. However, the recent vote at the National Assembly has effectively disenfranchised a significant segment of Gambian society who continue to make invaluable contributions to the country’s socio-economic development, with remittance inflows representing approximately 31.5% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2024.”

The NHRC reaffirmed its long-standing advocacy for diaspora voting rights, citing its engagement with the National Assembly Joint Committee on Regional Government, Lands, IEC, Ombudsman, and Human Rights and Constitutional Matters in May 2021. “During discussions on the then Elections Bill 2020, the NHRC strongly and unequivocally advocated for the granting of the right to vote to Gambians in the diaspora,” the commission stated.

The NHRC also referenced a Supreme Court ruling on January 27, 2021, which upheld the political rights of five Gambians who had challenged their exclusion from the electoral process. “The Supreme Court reaffirmed that the systematic and continued disenfranchisement of Gambians living abroad is illegal and violates their fundamental rights,” the NHRC recalled. “The Court explicitly affirmed that, pursuant to Section 39 of the Constitution, every Gambian, including those residing outside the country, is entitled to be registered and to vote in elections at all levels.”

Addressing concerns raised during the National Assembly debate, the NHRC noted that while the Minister of Justice highlighted constitutional and logistical challenges, the government and IEC had ample time to address these issues. “Many Gambians strongly believe that the IEC and the Government have had sufficient time to find solutions,” the commission stated. “Several countries in the sub-region, including Senegal, Cabo Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, and Niger, have successfully enfranchised their diasporan communities.”

The NHRC called on the government and the IEC to take immediate action to uphold the rights of Gambians abroad. “As a fundamental democratic right, every eligible citizen, irrespective of their geographical location, should have the right and the opportunity to vote and be voted for,” the commission stated. “This right is recognized in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which The Gambia is a State Party.”

06/03/2025

Morocco Reportedly Asks Former Senegalese President Macky Sall to Leave

Former Senegalese President Macky Sall has reportedly been asked to leave Morocco, where he has been residing since leaving office. The decision comes amid an ongoing corruption investigation by the new Senegalese government, which could implicate Sall.

Sources indicate that Senegalese authorities have conveyed a clear message to Morocco through diplomatic channels, stating that if Sall were to face prosecution, Rabat should cooperate with extradition requests.

In response, Morocco has reportedly opted to prioritize its relationship with the current Senegalese administration over providing refuge to the former president.

Less than a year ago, the former president was welcomed with honors by Moroccan authorities.

Source: Seneweb

06/03/2025

Justice Minister Cites Multiple Factors Behind Delays in Land Dispute Rulings

Attorney General and Minister of Justice Dawda A. Jallow has outlined several factors contributing to delays in court rulings on land disputes.

Minister Jallow acknowledged concerns from both the National Assembly and the public, stating that delays in resolving land disputes hinder access to justice, escalate conflicts, and weaken public confidence in the judiciary.

According to him, land cases are inherently complex due to the multifaceted nature of land ownership and usage in The Gambia. He explained that such disputes often involve multiple parties, including families, communities, and investors, with competing interests. Additionally, these cases require the examination of historical records, survey plans, and customary land tenure systems, all of which contribute to delays.

“The prolonged timeframe for resolving land disputes is due to a variety of complex and interrelated factors, each contributing to the overall delays experienced in our courts,” Minister Jallow said.

He further highlighted that land disputes often carry significant financial and emotional stakes, leading to extended litigation. The frequent filing of interlocutory applications such as injunctions, stay of orders, and motions challenging jurisdiction adds further delays by necessitating additional hearings.

Another major factor, he noted, is the volume of evidence required in land cases. Courts must carefully assess title deeds, survey reports, witness testimonies, and expert examinations to ensure fair and just rulings, a process that is both time consuming and resource-intensive.

Minister Jallow also pointed to systemic constraints within the judiciary, including a limited number of judges, magistrates, and court staff. These human resource challenges, coupled with inadequate infrastructure and logistical limitations, contribute to a backlog of cases, further delaying land dispute resolutions.

Additionally, he noted that many land cases go through multiple levels of appeal, as litigants challenge unfavorable rulings in higher courts, prolonging the judicial process.

Despite these challenges, Minister Jallow reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing delays in land dispute resolutions. He outlined ongoing efforts to strengthen judicial capacity, including increasing the number of judges and magistrates, particularly those specializing in land law.

“The government remains committed to addressing these challenges through targeted reforms and capacity-building initiatives. We are confident that these efforts will lead to a more efficient and effective judicial system,” he stated.

05/03/2025

The Ministry of Transport, Works, and Infrastructure responds to the statement made by the Leader of the opposition United Democratic Party (UDP), Lawyer Ousainou Darboe, regarding the ports agreement with Albayrak.

The Ministry affirms that the Government of The Gambia has not sold the Port of Banjul.

05/03/2025

Gambia’s 2024 Draft Constitution Bill Set for Second Reading on March 27

The 2024 Draft Constitution Bill will undergo its second reading in the National Assembly on March 27. To advance to a referendum, it must secure at least 42 votes from the 58 lawmakers.

If it fails to meet this requirement, the bill will be dismissed, similar to the 2020 draft, which was halted when 23 MPs voted against it. The ruling National People’s Party (NPP) and the opposition United Democratic Party (UDP) hold the most seats in parliament, making their positions key to the outcome.

While some lawmakers have suggested amendments, civil society organizations have called for the bill’s passage. The vote will determine whether the draft moves forward or is rejected like its predecessor.

What do you think? Should the draft be approved or rejected?

05/03/2025

President Barrow Presides Over GMD 396 Million for Skills Innovation and Entrepreneurship Fund at Award Ceremony.

05/03/2025

The Gambia Ports Authority (GPA) will today relaunch the Kanilai ferry after undergoing repairs for more than nine months. President Adama Barrow during his last visit at the ports revealed that the vessel had sustained significant damage due to a lack of maintenance since 2018.

As part of the repairs, 90% of the ferry has been replaced.

05/03/2025

Mayor Lowe Criticizes Prolonged Interdiction of Council Staff

Banjul Mayor Rohey Malick Lowe has raised concerns over the continued interdiction of more than two dozen council staff, describing the situation as unfair and disruptive to council operations.

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, she stated that the affected employees, who were suspended in 2024 following an audit report, have remained on administrative leave for months without resolution. The Local Government Service Commission has defended the move, arguing that it was necessary to facilitate an ongoing police investigation into alleged financial mismanagement.

Mayor Lowe questioned the basis of the interdictions, arguing that some staff members were accused of minor financial discrepancies, yet remain suspended despite evidence of deposit slips confirming transactions.

She also highlighted the operational strain on the council due to the absence of key personnel, stating that the situation has forced remaining staff to take on additional responsibilities. The prolonged interdictions, she said, have left critical positions vacant, including those of the procurement officer, public relations officer, council advisor, planning manager, accounts manager, senior accounts officer, and revenue collectors.

04/03/2025

Gambia’s National Assembly Votes Against Diaspora Voting

The Gambia’s National Assembly has voted against granting voting rights to Gambians in the diaspora, a move that has sparked disappointment and frustration among Gambians living abroad.

According to Hon. Madi Ceesay, a member of the opposition United Democratic Party (UDP), the vote was largely opposed by members of the ruling National People’s Party (NPP), the National Reconciliation Party (NRP), all nominated members, and some independent lawmakers. “The NPP, NRP, all the nominated members, and some independent members have just voted against diaspora voting 25 against 14,” he stated.

The decision has drawn sharp criticism from Gambians living abroad, many of whom argue that they contribute significantly to the country’s economy and should not be excluded from the democratic process.

Ambassador Essa Bokarr Sey condemned the decision, stating that successive governments have consistently sidelined the diaspora. “For years now, the executive in the first, second, and third Republics have been rejecting Gambians abroad simply because they traveled. Being punished for going abroad? Seriously?” he questioned.

He further criticized lawmakers for what he described as hypocrisy. “The same National Assembly members who deny us voting rights are the ones calling, texting, and emailing us for help when they travel abroad. Some of them have their families living with the very people they are denying the legal right to vote.”

Ousman Ceesay, a Gambian based in the United States, also expressed frustration, arguing that the rationale given for blocking diaspora voting is flawed. “Many of us own homes and businesses in The Gambia, rooted in specific constituencies. Why then can’t we use those as our domiciles for voter registration? This is not a complex issue it is a deliberate act of disenfranchisement,” he said.

He also pointed out that diaspora remittances account for nearly 30% of The Gambia’s GDP. “Yet, when it comes to having a voice in governance, we are treated as outsiders. The Supreme Court has already ruled in our favor, affirming our right to vote, but the executive continues to drag its feet,” he added.

Meanwhile, Justice Minister Dawda Jallow defended the decision, stating that logistical and legal hurdles must first be addressed before diaspora voting can be implemented. “If you give the IEC (Independent Electoral Commission) the authority to register the diaspora, they would still not be able to vote unless they demarcate the diaspora into a National Assembly constituency,” he explained.

04/03/2025

Darboe Calls for Arrest of Baboucarr Bahoum Over Remarks on Kiang

Ousainou Darboe, leader of the United Democratic Party (UDP), has called on the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to arrest Baboucarr Bahoum for his controversial comments about the people of Kiang. Darboe criticized the police chief’s decision to accept Bahoum’s apology, arguing that his statement could incite discord.

“What Baboucarr Bahoum did is wrong and unacceptable. You do not insult an entire community, and the Inspector General of Police said he is satisfied with his apology. That should not be the position of the IGP,” Darboe stated.

He further argued that Bahoum’s remarks were seditious, citing section 52 of the Criminal Code. “The statement Mr. Bahoum made is seditious because any statement that tends to raise disaffection or discontent among the inhabitants of The Gambia is seditious. IGP, I ask you to arrest Baboucarr Bahoum, subject him to proper interrogation, and determine whether his statement is likely to cause disaffection among the people of Kiang. He can’t hide behind an apology,” he said.

Darboe also defended Binta Njie Jetta, a Kiangka who publicly responded to Bahoum’s remarks, stating that she had every right to do so. He warned of potential unrest if authorities failed to act. “Imagine if some boys came to attack him, what would you say, IGP? Would you charge them for assault when Bahoum has insulted my mother, father, and grandparents? I am telling you to do your duty and check whether this statement by Bahoum is not seditious.”

04/03/2025

Mayor Lowe Denies Misuse of EU Project Funds

Banjul Mayor Rohey Malick Lowe has dismissed allegations of misusing funds from the EU-funded Banjul Ostend City Partnership, calling the claims baseless and politically motivated.

The accusations, made by Councillor Maxim Dock of Ostend City, suggest that funds from the partnership were mismanaged, including claims that Mayor Lowe used the money for personal trips and staff employment. However, in a press conference at Banjul City Hall, Mayor Lowe strongly refuted the allegations, insisting that all finances were handled transparently and in accordance with EU regulations.

Mayor Lowe also addressed Maxim Dock’s broader criticism of the Banjul Ostend partnership, noting that this was not the first time he had spoken out against it. She argued that Dock’s stance reflected a belief that Banjul should only receive outdated items such as used clothing, second hand bicycles, and old ambulances.

The Banjul Ostend City Partnership was established to foster development and cooperation between the two cities. However, Councillor Dock has reportedly suggested that the relationship has run its course and should come to an end.

Mayor Lowe maintains that the partnership continues to benefit Banjul and that the allegations against her are unfounded

Stay tuned for more on this…..

04/03/2025

The Secretary-General and Party Leader of the United Democratic Party (UDP), ANM Ousainu Darboe, is currently holding a press conference at the UDP Manjai Bureau to address the state of the nation, this year’s budget and outline what the party would do if elected to office.

Stay tuned for more updates.

04/03/2025

Zelenskyy Remains Hopeful for U.S. Rare Earth Mineral Deal Despite Setback

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed optimism about a potential rare earth mineral deal with the United States, despite a recent setback and a heated exchange with former President Donald Trump.

During a visit to the White House on Saturday, Zelenskyy and Trump reportedly engaged in a tense confrontation at the State House, with sources suggesting that the dispute centered on the terms of the deal and U.S. support for Ukraine. Vice President JD Vance was also present during the discussions. Following the clash, Trump initially called off the agreement.

Despite this, Zelenskyy told reporters at a gathering of European leaders in the U.K. that he still believes the deal will move forward.

“I think they need time to analyze some things,” Zelenskyy said. “We count on U.S. aid in our fight against Russia.”

The Ukrainian president did not provide details about his disagreement with Trump but remained confident that the U.S. would eventually sign the agreement.

The rare earth mineral deal is considered vital for Ukraine’s economic recovery and its efforts to counter Russian aggression.

04/03/2025

Gambia Issues Bench Warrant for Alleged Jungler Sanna Manjang

The Banjul Magistrate Court, presided over by Principal Magistrate Krubally, has issued a bench warrant for the arrest of Sanna Manjang, a former member of the Junglers, a notorious paramilitary hit squad accused of carrying out extra-judicial killings during Yahya Jammeh’s regime.

Manjang, a former officer of the Gambia Armed Forces (GAF), fled the country following Jammeh’s electoral defeat in 2016. He has been linked to a series of human rights violations, including enforced disappearances, murder, torture, and sexual violence. Witnesses at the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC) implicated him in several high-profile killings, including the ex*****on of West African migrants in 2005 and the killing of journalist Deyda Hydara. However, Manjang has yet to respond to these allegations in court, and his whereabouts remain unclear.

A major development in the case emerged when Assistant Superintendent E. Sarr filed a request in the Banjul Magistrate Court for a bench warrant to facilitate Manjang’s arrest and ensure his appearance in court. The request follows a communication from Interpol Washington, dated February 25, 2025, inquiring whether Manjang is still wanted by Gambian authorities and requesting a copy of any existing arrest warrant.

In response, Magistrate Krubally granted the application, issuing a bench warrant compelling Manjang to appear before the court. The warrant is expected to be forwarded to relevant law enforcement agencies to facilitate his apprehension.

The National Central Bureau in Washington has asked Gambian authorities to clarify Manjang’s legal status and confirm whether he remains a fugitive.

“Dear colleagues, is Sanna Manjang still wanted by your country? If so, please provide a copy of the arrest warrant,” the U.S. National Central Bureau stated in its communication.

04/03/2025

Serekunda Community Threatens Legal Action Over Alleged Illegal Sale of Gaddafi Mosque Land

The community of Serekunda has announced plans to take legal action against the Sheriff Division of the Gambia High Court and Supersonicz Financial Limited over the alleged unauthorized sale of a portion of the Gaddafi Mosque property.

The land in question was reportedly sold in 2019 following a High Court ruling in a civil suit filed by Supersonicz Financial Limited against its former employee, Demba Marena, for D1.6 million.

Elders of Serekunda, led by Alieu Momar Njai, argue that the land belongs to the community and not to Marena, contrary to what they claim was an erroneous assumption by the Sheriff Division and Supersonicz.

Buba Senghore, secretary of the Gaddafi Mosque Committee, told The Standard that the elders have engaged a lawyer to challenge the sale in court. He added that a petition has been submitted to the Chief Justice, urging intervention.

In the petition, seen by The Standard, the community described the property as communal land that has historically served multiple public purposes, including hosting agricultural exhibitions, providing temporary shelter for displaced persons, and accommodating religious and educational activities under Libyan government sponsorship.

The petition further claims that the Sheriff Division’s decision was based on “erroneous information” from either Supersonicz Financial Limited or Demba Marena, asserting that Marena had no legal ownership or authority over the land.

“We vehemently dispute this notion,” the community stated, arguing that Marena’s residence on the property was based on goodwill rather than ownership rights. They have requested the Chief Justice to review the legality of the sale and allow them to challenge the proceedings through legal means.

In response to the petition, Chief Justice Hassan Jallow clarified that the Sheriff Division acts only on court orders.

“If you are dissatisfied with his actions, you should seek redress through the normal judicial process for the court to direct the Sheriff accordingly,” he advised the elders.

Njundu, a senior official at Supersonicz Financial Limited, confirmed that Marena was a former employee who had been involved in a D1.6 million fraud case in 2009. Following a lawsuit, the High Court ruled in favor of Supersonicz, ordering Marena to repay the amount.

However, the official stated that Supersonicz was not involved in the sale of the land.

“I cannot tell exactly how the Sheriff Division determined that Marena owned the property. From what I understand, he was living there with his elder brother, who was either the Imam or the principal of the school,” he said.

He further explained that all transactions were handled by the Sheriff Division and the court, and Supersonicz only received the funds from the sale.

“We had no involvement in the sale process. We were simply paid the money owed to us,” he concluded.

The Standard Newspaper

03/03/2025

As Gambians observe the third day of Ramadan, the demand for essential food items such as rice, sugar, onions, and cooking oil has surged. However, many households are feeling the strain as prices continue to rise compared to previous years.

The price of a 50kg bag of American rice now stands at D2,250, while a 50kg bag of sugar is selling for D2,600. Onions, which were priced at D850 last year, have now risen to D1,350, and a 20-liter container of cooking oil has increased from D1,450 to D2,255.

These price hikes come at a time when families heavily rely on these staples for preparing iftar and suhoor meals, making it increasingly difficult for many to manage their Ramadan expenses.

In the coming days, we will bring you more on this from the public as Gambians share their experiences and concerns about the rising cost of essential goods.

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