Namasita TV., Brufut (2024)

09/09/2024

The Gambia Deserves Better: A Call for Visionary Leadership

By Kejau Touray

The Gambia, a small nation with a rich history and immense potential, stands at a crossroads. For too long, we have been plagued by leadership that prioritizes personal wealth, per diems, and the preservation of power over the true needs of the people. Our country deserves better. We deserve leadership that is not rooted in self-interest, but one that is driven by a genuine desire to transform The Gambia into a beacon of hope, prosperity, and progress.
It is time for us to rethink our approach to governance. For decades, the politics of personal enrichment and power consolidation have eroded public trust and stunted national development. Leaders with no clear plans or vision for the future have left us in a state of stagnation, where the needs of the people are often sidelined in favour of individual gain. This cycle must be broken if The Gambia is to thrive.

What we need is a leader with a vision—someone who sees beyond personal gains and the trappings of office, and instead focuses on building a sustainable future for all Gambians. This leader must be committed to addressing the pressing issues of unemployment, education, healthcare, and infrastructure, with tangible plans and policies. A leader with the capacity to not only dream but to implement strategies that empower citizens and lift them out of poverty.

Good leadership in The Gambia should be characterized by humility, integrity, and a relentless commitment to public service. We need someone who places the nation first, who is willing to listen to the people, and who is unafraid to make tough decisions that benefit the country as a whole. Gambians deserve a government that is transparent, accountable, and fully committed to the betterment of its people.

The time has come to look forward, beyond the politics of the past, and elect leaders who understand the challenges facing The Gambia today. We need leaders with both the vision and the courage to bring about real change—leaders who do not see power as a means to personal wealth, but as an opportunity to serve the nation with honor and purpose.

The Gambia deserves better, and it is up to us, the people, to demand and support leaders who are prepared to make the sacrifices necessary to lead our country into a brighter future. Our collective prosperity hinges on a leadership that is visionary, accountable, and above all, dedicated to the welfare of every Gambian.
https://namasita.com/news/gambia-deserves-better-call-visionary-leadership-10825

09/09/2024

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The Curious Case of Yankuba Darboe: From Courtroom to Council Chair

By Kejau Touray

The case of Yankuba Darboe, widely known as "Yanks," the current Chairman of the Brikama Area Council, is a story that reflects the complex intersections of politics, protest, and the judiciary in The Gambia. Before his rise to public office, Yanks faced legal challenges that have continued to follow him into his new role. He was arraigned before a magistrates' court in Banjul on charges related to a protest he led, calling for President Adama Barrow to honor his promise of stepping down after the coalition term.

That protest, supported by members of the opposition and civil society groups, was one of several attempts to hold President Barrow accountable for his pledge to serve only three years. Yanks, along with other protesters, was detained during the demonstration, accused of leading a group that attempted to force Barrow’s resignation. During his detention, he was charged with sedition and accused of insulting the parents of the president and judiciary officers.

In a significant development, Yanks has now been informed by his lawyers that his sedition case will be called again this Monday morning at the Banjul Magistrates’ Court. Adding to the complexity, his appeal to the High Court was recently thrown out due to a lack of court records—a procedural issue that has raised eyebrows, as it questions the efficiency of the very system handling his case. This latest twist has fueled a growing narrative that the legal processes involved may be more politically charged than procedural.

The charges against Yanks were part of a broader effort by the government to deal with the leaders of what they saw as violent protests. However, the charges were eventually dropped for most of the protest leaders, leaving many to wonder why Yanks continues to face legal action. Some believe that his high-profile role in challenging President Barrow’s administration made him a target.

Despite these legal challenges, Yankuba Darboe's political career has flourished. His nomination by the UDP as their candidate for Chairman of the Brikama Area Council was met with controversy. Critics argued that, given his ongoing legal troubles, Yanks should not have been eligible for public office and that the due process was not followed but he was instead rewarded for his role in the Three Years Jotna protests. Others saw his nomination as a calculated risk by the UDP, betting on his popularity among grassroots supporters.

In the end, the risk paid off. Yanks won the election by a landslide, securing a clear mandate from the people of Brikama. His victory raised important questions about how Gambians view leadership, justice, and political activism. For many, Darboe’s election was seen as a rebuke of President Barrow’s perceived failure to deliver on his promises. His supporters view Yanks as a symbol of resistance, a man who stood firm in the face of what they believe to be an unjust legal system. For others, however, his rise is a concerning sign that confrontational politics, rather than governance-focused leadership, is being rewarded.

Yanks' case has become a reflection of the shifting political landscape in The Gambia. While the sedition charges against him have not been fully resolved, his electoral success suggests that a significant portion of the population is more focused on his potential to bring change to the Brikama Area Council than on the legal battles of the past.

Yankuba Darboe’s story is emblematic of the tensions between political activism and the rule of law in the country. His journey from protest leader to council chairman is a testament to his political acumen, but the unresolved legal case could cast a long shadow over his tenure. For now, he is focused on serving the people of Brikama, but the lingering legal battles—especially the sedition case being called this Monday—could continue to complicate his role.

Yanks has often said that this legal ordeal is not about justice but rather a travesty of justice designed to keep him behind bars. He and his supporters believe that the continued pursuit of these charges is politically motivated, a claim that resonates with many who see the judiciary as a tool in the hands of those in power.

Whether or not this case will define his political future remains to be seen. For now, Yanks stands tall, buoyed by the support of his constituents and confident that he will prevail. His ability to navigate the challenges of both the courtroom and public office will determine whether he can turn this moment of controversy into a lasting legacy of leadership and change for Brikama.

Aluta continua, as his supporters often chant, but the path ahead remains uncertain. https://namasita.com/news/curious-case-yankuba-darboe-courtroom-council-chair-10824

08/09/2024

Gambian Group Calls for Disqualification of Mamadou Tangara from Commonwealth Secretary-General Bid

By Kejau Touray

A group of concerned Gambians and Commonwealth citizens have petitioned the disqualification of former Gambian Foreign Minister, Mamadou Tangara, from his bid to become the next Secretary-General of the Commonwealth of Nations. Citing allegations of nepotism and his controversial role during Yahya Jammeh's dictatorship, the group argues that Tangara’s candidacy would undermine the values upheld by the Commonwealth.

In a formal petition addressed to the Chair-in-Office of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), President Paul Kagame of Rwanda, the group expressed grave concerns about Tangara’s suitability for the role. The petition, signed by Cherno M. Njie, the group’s coordinator, and Madi Jobarteh, its spokesperson, highlights Tangara’s past as a prominent figure in Jammeh's administration, which was notorious for widespread human rights abuses.

The letter, titled "Objection to the Candidacy of Mamadou Tangara for the Position of Secretary-General of the Commonwealth of Nations," accuses Tangara of having misled the international community about the human rights situation in The Gambia during his time as Foreign Minister. The petitioners claim that Tangara repeatedly defended or downplayed the atrocities committed under Jammeh’s regime, casting doubt on his ability to uphold the principles of democracy, human rights, and good governance — core values of the Commonwealth.

The petitioners argue that Tangara's deep involvement in the Jammeh government, particularly during a time when the president sought to consolidate power through anti-democratic means, disqualifies him from consideration for the Secretary-General position.

"Mamadou Tangara was first appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs at a time when President Yahya Jammeh was openly attacking The Gambia’s democratic institutions. He not only accepted the appointment but also aligned himself with Jammeh’s oppressive government for several years, serving in high-profile roles until the end of the dictatorship in 2016," the petition states.

Tangara held various ministerial positions during Jammeh’s regime, including Foreign Affairs, Higher Education, and Fisheries, and later became The Gambia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations. According to the petitioners, Tangara’s alignment with Jammeh's leadership, despite well-documented human rights violations, makes his candidacy for the Commonwealth's top job incompatible with the organization’s values.

The group insists that Tangara’s record does not meet the high ethical standards required of the Commonwealth’s Secretary-General. They argue that allowing him to assume the role would compromise the integrity of the Commonwealth and betray the trust of member nations that expect strong leadership in promoting democracy and protecting human rights.

As the race for the next Secretary-General continues, this petition casts a shadow over Tangara’s campaign, raising important questions about the responsibility of public officials who served in autocratic regimes. The Commonwealth has yet to respond to the petition, but the calls for disqualification highlight the weight of accountability that accompanies leadership bids in global institutions.

The election for the next Secretary-General is expected to be closely watched, with Commonwealth member states set to convene and make a decision in the coming months.

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https://namasita.com/news/gambian-group-calls-disqualification-mamadou-tangara-commonwealth-secretary-general-bid-10823

05/09/2024

Gambians Rally Behind Madi Jobarteh’s Petition to Block Tangara’s Bid for Commonwealth Secretary-General

Prominent human rights activist and social commentator Madi Jobarteh has sparked significant debate with a bold petition addressed to the Commonwealth Secretariat, urging the body to reject Dr Mamadou Tangara's potential candidacy for the position of Commonwealth Secretary-General. Jobarteh, argues that Tangara’s involvement in the dictatorship makes him unsuitable for such a prestigious post.

The Petition’s Core Argument

In the petition, Jobarteh emphasizes the need for accountability for those who served in senior positions during Jammeh's brutal regime. Tangara, who was a key figure in Jammeh’s cabinet as Minister of Foreign Affairs, is seen by many as part of the regime’s machinery that oversaw human rights abuses, systemic corruption, and the suppression of democratic freedoms.

"Anyone who served under Jammeh bears collective responsibility for the atrocities committed during that time," Jobarteh states in his petition. "We cannot ignore the fact that these ministers, whether directly or indirectly, played a role in sustaining a government that terrorized its own people."

The Case Against Tangara

Jobarteh’s petition underscores a critical issue: collective responsibility. While Tangara distanced himself from the dictatorship during the 2016 political impasse by siding with President Adama Barrow in his challenge to Jammeh’s rule, many argue that this late decision does not absolve him of his years of service in the dictatorship. The petition suggests that Tangara’s last-minute stance, though commendable, does not erase his involvement in a government that systematically violated human rights.

"We must recognize that even if Dr Tangara made a stand at the last moment, his years of service prior to that in the Jammeh administration were in support of a regime that inflicted pain and suffering on Gambians," the petition asserts.

The Call for Accountability

Madi Jobarteh’s call to block Tangara’s bid for Commonwealth Secretary-General is part of a broader demand for accountability from former members of the Jammeh regime. The petition highlights the growing belief in Gambian society that those who participated in or supported the dictatorship—whether directly or as part of its leadership—must be held accountable for their roles. The Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparations Commission (TRRC) has amplified these calls, with many victims of the regime seeking justice and accountability.

Jobarteh’s petition resonates with this call for justice, reflecting the sentiment that the Commonwealth, as an organization that upholds democracy, human rights, and good governance, should not be associated with individuals who were part of oppressive regimes.

Public Support for the Petition

The petition has gained widespread attention on social media and among civil society organizations, with many supporting Jobarteh’s stance. Kejau Touray, known for his outspoken criticism of former President Yahya Jammeh’s regime, CEO of Namasita Media and a former military officer who served in the Gendarmerie, Police, and Army, echoed the petition’s message. "I stand with Madi Jobarteh in opposing Dr. Tangara’s candidacy. We must hold those who served in Jammeh’s government accountable, no matter how late they took a stand against the dictatorship. Collective responsibility for those years of abuse cannot be ignored," Touray stated.

Many Gambians share similar sentiments, demanding justice for the atrocities committed during Jammeh’s 22-year reign. They argue that Tangara’s candidacy would send the wrong message to the victims of the dictatorship, some of whom are still awaiting justice.

Looking Ahead

As the Commonwealth deliberates on its next Secretary-General, the question of accountability remains central to the discussion surrounding Dr. Tangara’s potential candidacy. While his diplomatic skills and last-minute stand against Jammeh may be acknowledged, many Gambians believe that the Commonwealth cannot overlook his years of service under one of Africa’s most repressive regimes.

The petition by Madi Jobarteh represents a growing desire for justice, not just for the victims of the Jammeh era, but for all Gambians who seek a future free from impunity and fear. Whether the Commonwealth will heed this call for accountability remains to be seen.

For now, the petition serves as a reminder that the shadows of the past continue to influence the present and that the struggle for justice in The Gambia is far from over. https://namasita.com/news/gambians-rally-behind-madi-jobartehs-petition-block-tangaras-bid-commonwealth-secretary-general

05/09/2024

Headline: President Barrow’s Trip to China with the Usual Wife, Raises Questions Over Equal Representation of His Wives

President Adama Barrow’s recent trip to China, accompanied as usual by his wife Fatoumata Bah, has sparked widespread discussion about the need for equal representation of his two wives in official roles. While it is normal for the president to travel with only one wife, the growing perception of Fatoumata Bah as the sole First Lady, with his second wife, Sarjo Mballow, playing a minimal public role, has led to concerns over fairness and adherence to cultural traditions.

Critics argue that President Barrow should take inspiration from Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara, The Gambia's first president, who had two wives, Chilel Njie Jawara and Njemmeh Mboge. Both were recognized as First Ladies and shared official responsibilities, including alternating in accompanying him on state visits and attending important functions. Jawara’s approach was a clear reflection of The Gambia’s cultural respect for polygamy, ensuring both wives had equal visibility and status in public life.

This controversy has also drawn comparisons with Basirou Diomaye Faye, the current president of Senegal, who replaced Macky Sall. Faye is married to Marie Khone Faye and Absa Faye, and he has ensured both wives share the responsibilities of First Lady equally. This practice of alternating their public roles aligns with the cultural values of Senegal and many West African countries, where polygamy is recognized, and co-wives are expected to be treated with equal dignity in both personal and public spheres.

In contrast, Barrow’s apparent elevation of Fatoumata Bah to sole First Lady status echoes the approach taken by former Gambian leader Yahya Jammeh, who prominently featured his wife Zeinab Jammeh while his second wife, Alima Sallah, remained largely out of the public eye. Jammeh’s decision to give one wife exclusive public attention was criticized as a break from the cultural norm of treating all wives equally in polygamous marriages.

One cultural analyst commented, “It is perfectly acceptable for the president to travel with one wife, but the duties and role of the First Lady should be shared equally. Favouring one wife in public sends a message that undermines the cultural values of fairness and equality in polygamous marriages.”

Many Gambians believe that by focusing solely on Fatoumata Bah during such high-profile international trips, President Barrow is setting a precedent that mirrors the actions of Jammeh rather than the balanced approach of Jawara. This has raised concerns over how the president will manage the public roles of both wives moving forward.

As the debate continues, many hope that President Barrow will ensure that both Fatoumata Bah and Sarjo Mballow share the duties of First Lady, alternating their appearances in state functions and travels. Doing so would not only honor Gambian traditions but also promote fairness and equality within his household, demonstrating respect for the cultural values deeply embedded in The Gambia’s history and society. https://namasita.com/news/headline-president-barrows-trip-china-usual-wife-raises-questions-over-equal-representation-his

05/09/2024

Headline: Political Rift in UDP Deepens as Mayor Lowe Mends Ties with Party Leader Amidst Bensouda Sidelining

The political intrigue within The Gambia’s United Democratic Party (UDP) continues to escalate, as Banjul Mayor Rohey Malick Lowe makes headlines once again. In a surprising turn of events, Mayor Lowe has re-established ties with UDP leader Ousainu Darboe after months of perceived distancing. This comes after Lowe publicly presented an award she had won to President Adama Barrow, fueling speculation about her dissatisfaction with the UDP leadership.

For months, Mayor Lowe felt sidelined by her party, prompting her to seek favour from Barrow, a move that was seen by many as a sign of growing frustration with her party’s leadership. However, following a public display of reconciliation, Lowe now appears closer to Darboe, raising questions about her political strategy and future within the UDP.

In a further twist, Lowe recently took aim at the camp of Kanifing Mayor Talib Bensouda, a figure many view as a rising star within the party. During a public address, Lowe criticized the notion of younger party members challenging elders for leadership positions, stating, "No one tells an elder to give up his seat for you." Her remarks were widely interpreted as a rebuke to those in the UDP, particularly Bensouda’s supporters, who are reportedly positioning him to challenge Darboe for the party’s flagbearer ahead of the 2026 presidential elections.

Meanwhile, Talib Bensouda’s own political standing within the UDP appears increasingly tenuous. For the second time in recent months, Bensouda was left out of UDP leadership’s travels, including a major town hall meeting held in Atlanta, Georgia. The exclusion has fueled speculation that Bensouda, whose popularity and appeal have grown significantly, may be viewed as a threat to Darboe’s long-established hold on the party leadership. Insiders suggest that Bensouda’s ambitions may be unsettling the old guard of the UDP, leading to deliberate moves to marginalize him.

Amidst this unfolding drama, UDP leader Ousainu Darboe remains focused on maintaining his leadership role. Fresh from attending the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago in August 2024, Darboe travelled to Atlanta to attend a UDP town hall meeting. At the event, he was joined by Mayor Lowe and the chairman of the UDP Diaspora. The gathering was attended by UDP supporters, members of the Gambian diaspora, and political observers. Discussions ranged from governance and political representation to economic development in The Gambia, providing a platform for open dialogue between Darboe and his party’s diaspora supporters.

Notably, the town hall meeting successfully raised $20,000 to support UDP activities, demonstrating the continued financial backing the party enjoys from its supporters abroad.

The UDP’s internal dynamics remain in flux, with the growing rift between the Bensouda camp and the party’s old guard coming to the forefront. While Lowe’s recent rapprochement with Darboe suggests a shift in her political calculations, Bensouda’s sidelining raises questions about the future of the party’s leadership. As the 2026 elections approach, many are left wondering whether the UDP will manage to unite under a single flagbearer or if internal power struggles will fracture the party’s prospects.

For now, the UDP faces an uncertain future, with key figures like Lowe and Bensouda navigating the party’s evolving political landscape. How these tensions play out will have significant implications for the UDP as it prepares for the critical elections ahead. https://namasita.com/news/headline-political-rift-udp-deepens-mayor-lowe-mends-ties-party-leader-amidst-bensouda

04/09/2024

Headline: 16 Immigration Department Officers Graduate from IT Training Program

Date: September 3, 2024

Banjul, The Gambia – In a significant step towards enhancing the digital capabilities of The Gambia's public sector, 16 officers from the Immigration Department have successfully completed an intensive training program in cybersecurity, networking, and basic database queries. The graduation ceremony, held earlier today, was attended by senior government officials, including the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Lamin Yabou, and the Minister overseeing the Digital Economy Ministry, Dr. Ismaila Ceesay.

The training program, conducted by SUITIN, aimed to equip immigration personnel with the necessary skills to safeguard the nation’s digital infrastructure and improve service delivery through the effective use of Information Technology.

Keynote Address by Hon. Dr. Ismaila Ceesay

In his keynote address, Hon. Dr. Ismaila Ceesay, Minister of Information and Digital Economy, highlighted the pivotal role of Information Technology in shaping the future of The Gambia. He emphasized the importance of digital skills in the public sector, particularly in enhancing the efficiency and security of government services.

Dr. Ceesay took the opportunity to announce several upcoming government initiatives aimed at accelerating The Gambia’s digital transformation. "The Government of The Gambia is working on the implementation of the MyGov platform, a One-Stop Shop for key government services, including ID card application, birth certificate registration, business registration, passport application, and driver's license processing," he revealed.

He further elaborated on additional projects that are set to transform the government’s digital infrastructure. "We are also on the verge of launching the first government information portal and developing a mobile app, funded by ECOWAS, to enhance efficiency and strengthen the government's online presence," Dr. Ceesay announced.

He concluded his speech by congratulating the graduates on their achievements and encouraged them to apply their newly acquired skills to contribute to The Gambia's digital future. "You are now equipped with the tools to be at the forefront of our nation’s digital evolution. Your expertise will be critical in ensuring that our systems are secure and our services are efficient," Dr. Ceesay stated.

Address by Sulayman Camara, CEO of SUITIN

Sulayman Camara, CEO of SUITIN, who also serves as the Cybersecurity Advisor to the President’s Office and the Communication Secretary of the ruling National People’s Party (NPP), provided a detailed breakdown of the course studies and their importance to the Immigration Department officers.

Camara explained that the training program was meticulously designed to address the specific needs of the Immigration Department, focusing on three core areas: cybersecurity, networking, and basic database management. He highlighted that these skills are crucial for the officers as they work to protect sensitive national data and ensure the smooth operation of immigration services.

"Cybersecurity is at the forefront of national security, and our immigration officers must be equipped to handle the growing threats in the digital space. Networking and database management skills are equally important in maintaining secure and efficient systems that support our national operations," Camara emphasized.

He also reiterated the government's commitment to continuous professional development, ensuring that public servants are well-prepared to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Support from Senior Government Officials

The ceremony marked a significant milestone for the Immigration Department and for The Gambia’s broader efforts to integrate Information Technology into all facets of government operations. As these newly trained officers return to their posts, they are expected to play a crucial role in enhancing the security and efficiency of the nation’s immigration services.

The event closed with the presentation of certificates to the graduates, who were celebrated for their dedication and hard work. Their training is seen as a vital step in strengthening The Gambia’s digital resilience and improving the quality of public services.

Namasita Media will continue to cover developments in The Gambia’s digital transformation and the ongoing efforts to build a more secure and efficient public service sector.
https://namasita.com/news/headline-16-immigration-department-officers-graduate-it-training-program-10819

04/09/2024

GAMCOTRAP Concludes Six-Day FGM Sensitization Program in North Bank Region

Essau, The Gambia – August 26, 2024. The Gambia Committee on Harmful Traditional Practices Affecting Women and Children (GAMCOTRAP) has successfully concluded a six-day community sensitization program on Female Ge***al Mutilation (FGM) and its health implications. The event took place in the North Bank Region's towns of Essau and Farafenni and was funded by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) through the Child Fund.

The program, aimed at raising awareness about the harmful health effects of FGM, drew participants from diverse target groups, including ex-circumcisers, women leaders, youth, and Community-Based Facilitators (CBFs) from Lower Niumi, Upper Niumi, and Jokadu Districts.

Speaking at the event, the Deputy Governor of the North Bank Region expressed gratitude to UNFPA for supporting the initiative. He emphasized that the program had arrived at an opportune time, reinforcing the role of the North Bank in the future of The Gambia. The Deputy Governor also reaffirmed the government's commitment to protecting the rights of women and children by upholding the recently passed FGM Bill 2023. He urged GAMCOTRAP to continue its efforts to educate the public about the negative health consequences of FGM and other harmful traditional practices.

Dr. Isatou Touray, the Executive Director of GAMCOTRAP, in her address, acknowledged UNFPA's support in helping the organization reach communities and raise awareness. She called on participants to take advantage of the sessions and share the information with their respective communities.

During the engagement in Essau, Dr. Touray highlighted the importance of creating a network of ex-circumcisers, Mother's Clubs, and youth groups to promote societal norms that protect girls and women from harmful practices such as FGM and early marriage. The network, she explained, plays a crucial role in safeguarding the rights of female children and ensuring that girls are protected under the law.

A Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Welfare representative took participants through the legal instruments that defend the rights of women and children. They emphasized that the law banning FGM in The Gambia is effective and that anyone caught violating it will face the full force of the law.

Dr. Touray also mentioned that UNFPA and GAMCOTRAP would soon hand over milling machines to six communities, intended to serve as income-generating ventures for ex-circumcisers who have abandoned the practice. This support is part of a broader effort to provide sustainable alternatives for women who previously relied on FGM as a source of livelihood.

As the program concluded, participants left with a strong understanding of the health risks associated with FGM and early marriage. The community leaders, women, and youth who attended the sensitization vowed to share their newfound knowledge and continue advocating for the protection of girls in their communities.

GAMCOTRAP, in collaboration with UNFPA, continues to play a leading role in The Gambia's fight against harmful traditional practices, ensuring that future generations of women and girls can grow up free from the dangers of FGM and early marriage.

Namasita Media 4 September, 2024
https://namasita.com/news/gamcotrap-concludes-six-day-fgm-sensitization-program-north-bank-region-10818

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