Gambian Community TV (2024)

18/02/2024

In a display of democratic fervor, thousands of demonstrators gathered in Senegal's capital, Dakar, yesterday, demanding the swift organization of presidential elections. This protest follows the country's highest court blocking President Macky Sall's attempt to postpone the originally scheduled elections for this month.

President Sall's last-minute decree, which was backed by parliament, had plunged Senegal into a political crisis, challenging its reputation as a stronghold of democracy in West Africa. The attempt to delay the elections triggered widespread discontent among the Senegalese population, leading to heightened tensions in the nation.

The rally in Dakar marked a significant moment in the ongoing political unrest. It was the first demonstration permitted by authorities since President Sall's announcement two weeks ago. Opposition supporters flooded the streets, holding signs that echoed the sentiment of the nation, demanding a "Free Senegal."

Presidential candidate Malick Gakou, a prominent figure in the opposition, addressed the crowd during the march, declaring, "Today's watchword is mobilization." The call for mobilization reflects the collective determination of the people to safeguard the democratic principles that Senegal has long been admired for.

The involvement of thousands of citizens in the demonstration highlights the depth of concern and the desire for a quick resolution to the political impasse. As the nation awaits clarity on the election schedule, the protestors' resounding demand for a swift and transparent electoral process resonates not only in Dakar but throughout Senegal.

The international community is closely watching the unfolding events in Senegal, emphasizing the importance of upholding democratic values and the rule of law. The call for free and fair elections has become a rallying cry, uniting citizens in their pursuit of a democratic future for Senegal. The coming days will likely be crucial in determining the resolution of the political turmoil and shaping the path forward for this West African nation.

In a display of democratic fervor, thousands of demonstrators gathered in Senegal's capital, Dakar, yesterday, demanding the swift organization of presidential elections. This protest follows the country's highest court blocking President Macky Sall's attempt to postpone the originally scheduled ele...

18/02/2024

In a fervent plea for justice, supporters of opposition presidential election candidate Bassirou Diomaye Faye have rallied behind calls for his immediate release, citing the fundamental principles of equal treatment under the constitution. The Diomaye President coalition issued a statement on Sunday, asserting that all candidates should benefit from constitutional principles, urging the release of Faye without delay.

"The release without delay of candidate Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye is a popular demand and respectful of the Constitution," the coalition emphasized.

Highlighting the urgency of the situation, the coalition also called for the immediate release of jailed opposition leader Ousmane Sonko, who has been in prison since July 2023 on charges including calling for an uprising, associating with criminals linked to terrorism, and harming state security. While the Constitutional Court rejected Sonko's candidacy, it accepted that of Faye, the party's number two, along with approximately 20 others.

Despite Faye being in preventive detention since April of the previous year, he is yet to face trial. The European Union, in a statement last month, emphasized that candidates approved by the Constitutional Council must be allowed to campaign for the election on equal terms.

President Macky Sall, in power since 2012 and not seeking a third term, recently released dozens of opposition supporters, asserting that there are no political prisoners in Senegal. However, the Diomaye coalition is calling for the immediate release of "all political prisoners who have been locked up unjustly."

Senegal has been plunged into a deep crisis as President Sall, at the last minute, postponed the February 25 election for his successor. Citing disputes over the disqualification of potential candidates and concerns about a return to unrest witnessed in 2021 and 2023, Sall's decision has sparked widespread discontent.

Under strong international and domestic pressure, Sall back-pedalled on Thursday, agreeing to the Constitutional Council's demand to organize the election as soon as possible. However, as of now, no specific date has been set, leaving the political landscape in Senegal in a state of uncertainty. The call for the release of Faye and other political prisoners remains at the forefront of the national conversation, echoing the broader demand for justice and adherence to constitutional principles.

In a fervent plea for justice, supporters of opposition presidential election candidate Bassirou Diomaye Faye have rallied behind calls for his immediate release, citing the fundamental principles of equal treatment under the constitution.

18/02/2024

In a remarkable demonstration of patriotism and commitment to community well-being, the Alkamba Health Caravan team once again made a significant impact in Niamina Kudang, providing free medical services and medications to nearly 400 patients. This marks the third consecutive time the team has undertaken this noble endeavor as part of its quarterly target to give back to the local community.

The altruistic initiative was led by Dr. Musa Marenah Jnr., who spearheaded a team of dedicated healthcare professionals including Dr. Kebba Marenah, Dr. Mariama Samateh-Marenah, Dr. Lamin Sanyang, Dr. Kutubo Fatty, and Dr. Kanteh, along with the compassionate nursing team consisting of Nurse Ansumana Ceesay, Nurse Fatoumatta/Aja Marenah, Nurse Isatou Marenah, Nurse Ebrima Sabally, and Nurse Alhagie Sambujang Ceesay. The effort was further complemented by the invaluable contributions of Samba Baldeh, Nurse Bunja Ceesay, Nurse Muctarr Ceesay, and Public Health Officer Kebba Fatty, as well as the coordination efforts of Nurse Bunja Ceesay.

The picture accompanying this article captures the essence of community service with the esteemed individuals who led the charge. Dr. Musa Marenah Jnr., as the Team Leader, showcased exemplary leadership alongside Dr. Kebba Marenah, Dr. Mariama Samateh-Marenah, and the rest of the medical team. Their commitment to improving the health and well-being of the people of Kudang is evident in their tireless efforts.

A special mention goes to Dr. Sabally, a veteran doctor and proud Kudang-born individual, formerly associated with the MRC-Gambia, who joined the team to contribute his expertise.

The success of the health caravan was also attributed to the unwavering support of the Alkamba Executive and general membership, community leaders, the Village Development Committee (VDC), and other local stakeholders who consistently lend their support whenever the team returns home.

Expressing gratitude to all sponsors in The Gambia and abroad, as well as the natives of Kudang and Alkamba, the team emphasized their pride in their place of origin and birthplaces. The collaborative efforts of the sponsors and community members alike made this impactful initiative possible.

As the team reflected on the day's achievements, they extended heartfelt thanks to everyone involved and expressed their hopes for continued blessings from Allah for all those who contributed to the success of the health caravan.

In the spirit of independence and communal solidarity, the Alkamba Health Caravan has once again proven that marking independence in style involves selfless service to our people and communities. The dedication of these healthcare professionals exemplifies the true essence of patriotism and the power of collective efforts in making a positive impact on society.

Niamina Kudang, 17/02/2024In a remarkable demonstration of patriotism and commitment to community well-being, the Alkamba Health Caravan team once again made a significant impact in Niamina Kudang, providing free medical services and medications to nearly 400 patients. This marks the third consecuti...

17/02/2024

In a significant development, Senegal's President Macky Sall has pledged to hold the delayed presidential election "as soon as possible" after the country's Constitutional Council ruled his attempt to postpone it unconstitutional.

President Sall, who has served two terms in office, faced immense pressure since he announced the decision to delay the elections just hours before campaigns were set to begin two weeks ago. The Constitutional Council, on Thursday, nullified President Sall's decree to move the vote to December and voided the contentious parliamentary bill that supported the president's decision.

This move is seen as a step towards restoring Senegal's reputation as a stronghold of democracy in West Africa. The judiciary's independence has been praised, with opposition figures and citizens alike expressing their appreciation for the court's decision.

The president, complying with the court ruling, has also committed to engaging in talks with all relevant stakeholders to facilitate the swift organization of elections. While the original date of February 25 is no longer feasible, a new date has not been announced. However, the Constitutional Council emphasized that President Sall cannot stay in power beyond the end of his term on April 2.

The West African body Ecowas, along with France and the European Union, had urged President Sall to adhere to the court's decision. The international community closely watches Senegal's political developments, given its historical stability in a region prone to political unrest.

Former Prime Minister Aminata Touré, a leading opposition figure, lauded Thursday's court ruling as "a great day for democracy," expressing relief at the restoration of constitutional order. Anta Babacar, the only female candidate, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the importance of democracy and justice in the country.

Despite the positive developments, challenges persist as the disputes that led to the initial postponement remain unresolved. Allegations of corruption within the Constitutional Council and objections from excluded opposition figures continue to cast a shadow over the electoral process. Additionally, the incarceration of influential opposition leader Ousmane Sonko, who claims his convictions are politically motivated, raises concerns about potential unrest and violence if elections proceed with a disputed candidate list.

Senegal's commitment to holding free and fair elections is crucial for maintaining its status as one of West Africa's more stable democracies. The nation, with a history free from military coups, grapples with the task of addressing unresolved issues and ensuring a smooth electoral process in the coming weeks.

By Kejau TourayIn a significant development, Senegal's President Macky Sall has pledged to hold the delayed presidential election "as soon as possible" after the country's Constitutional Council ruled his attempt to postpone it unconstitutional.President Sall, who has served two terms in office, fac...

17/02/2024

In a significant stride towards fostering continental unity and cooperation, the Vice Presidents of Gambia and Botswana, Muhammad B. S. Jallow and Slumber Tsogwane respectively, have arrived in Addis Ababa to participate in the 37th African Union Summit.

The esteemed delegates touched down at Bole International Airport, where they were warmly received by Ethiopian officials. Gambia's Vice President, Muhammad B. S. Jallow, was greeted by the country's Irrigation and Lowlands Minister, Ayisha Mohamed. Meanwhile, Botswana's Vice President, Slumber Tsogwane, received a gracious welcome from Ethiopia's Justice Minister, Gedion Timothewos.

The African Union Summit serves as a crucial platform for leaders across the continent to engage in dialogue, address pressing issues, and collectively work towards the advancement of the African continent. With representation from a diverse array of nations, the summit facilitates discussions on political, economic, and social matters, with the ultimate goal of achieving shared progress and prosperity.

Gambia and Botswana, as active members of the African Union, play integral roles in contributing to the organization's objectives of promoting peace, stability, and sustainable development throughout the continent. The presence of Vice Presidents Jallow and Tsogwane underscores their commitment to these shared goals.

The 37th African Union Summit is expected to cover a wide range of topics, including regional security, economic cooperation, and strategies for addressing common challenges faced by African nations. As leaders from across the continent converge in Addis Ababa, the stage is set for constructive deliberations that will shape the future trajectory of Africa's development.

The warm welcome extended to the Vice Presidents upon their arrival reflects the spirit of collaboration and camaraderie that defines the African Union, reinforcing the notion that through unity and cooperation, the continent can overcome shared challenges and build a brighter future for all its citizens.

Addis Ababa, February 16, 2024 (ENA)In a significant stride towards fostering continental unity and cooperation, the Vice Presidents of Gambia and Botswana, Muhammad B. S. Jallow and Slumber Tsogwane respectively, have arrived in Addis Ababa to participate in the 37th African Union Summit.The esteem...

17/02/2024

President Nana Akufo-Addo's office said Wednesday that Ofori-Atta would be replaced by Mohammed Amin Adam, currently the minister of state at the finance ministry and previously deputy energy minister responsible for the petroleum sector.

Ken Ofori-Atta had been overseeing Ghana's debt restructuring efforts after the West African nation defaulted on most of its external debt in December 2022.

Inflation rose above 50% that year and the local cedi currency plummeted. Ofori-Atta faced calls for his resignation from street protesters and both opposition and ruling party MPs, which he survived.

No reason has been given for his sacking and change that has affected 12 other ministers of state. Information Minister Kojo Oppong Nkrumah was deployed to the housing ministry. He was replaced by his deputy Fatimatu Abubakar, while Ambrose Dery, who held the interior minister portfolio, has been re-assigned to the office of the president.

President Nana Akufo-Addo's second and last term in office will end in 2025.

President Nana Akufo-Addo's office said Wednesday that Ofori-Atta would be replaced by Mohammed Amin Adam, currently the minister of state at the finance ministry and previously deputy energy minister responsible for the petroleum sector.Ken Ofori-Atta had been overseeing Ghana's debt restructuring....

16/02/2024

In a significant development, Senegal's highest constitutional body, the Constitutional Council, has declared President Macky Sall's decision to postpone the upcoming presidential election as unlawful. This ruling further intensifies the constitutional crisis that has shaken the nation's long-standing image of political stability.

The Constitutional Council, in a late-night decision on Thursday, stated that President Sall lacked the authority to postpone or cancel elections, emphasizing that the February 25 presidential vote must be held as soon as possible. The judges argued that Sall's decision to delay the vote was without legal basis and should be annulled.

This legal stance sets the stage for a potential clash between the judiciary and the president, who had canceled the election citing irregularities in the Constitutional Council's vetting of candidates. The National Assembly subsequently ratified this decision in a tumultuous parliamentary session where opposition MPs were forcibly removed by riot police. The parliament adopted a resolution to postpone the vote until December 15, simultaneously extending Sall's term until the new date.

Contrary to the parliament's resolution, the Constitutional Council maintained that Sall's term "cannot be extended," raising concerns about his legitimacy should he remain in office after his legal tenure ends in April. President Sall has not yet publicly responded to the Constitutional Council's ruling, and his spokesperson has not provided any comments.

Since the announcement of the election postponement, Senegal has experienced widespread unrest. Opposition parties have labeled the move as a "constitutional coup," tarnishing the country's reputation for political normalcy in a region often troubled by military regimes.

Opposition lawmaker Guy Marius Sagna, who was forcibly escorted from parliament earlier this month, warned of establishing a parallel government in April if President Sall does not relinquish power. The ongoing protests against the annulment have been met with force by tear gas-wielding police in Dakar and other cities. The communications ministry has intermittently cut mobile internet, and amid the demonstrations, three people have lost their lives, with dozens sustaining injuries.

President Sall has faced accusations from both opponents and rights groups of a human rights crackdown and creating an atmosphere of fear by suppressing the media. Despite flirtations with the idea of a third term last year, regional bloc Ecowas, along with Western allies France and the US, has called for a return to Senegal's normal electoral calendar. The unfolding crisis is closely watched, and the nation stands at a critical juncture with potential implications for its political stability and regional standing.

In a significant development, Senegal's highest constitutional body, the Constitutional Council, has declared President Macky Sall's decision to postpone the upcoming presidential election as unlawful. This ruling further intensifies the constitutional crisis that has shaken the nation's long-standi...

16/02/2024

Despite the success of its neighboring countries, The Gambia, a West African nation, is not typically associated with producing football talents. However, it has recently begun to nurture a budding star amidst its neighbors Nigeria, Ghana, and Senegal, all renowned for their football prowess and production of superstars.

Born on 22 July 2004, Yankuba Minteh hails from Bakoteh, a small district in the large and bustling city of Serekunda, Gambia’s capital city. Minteh’s clear determination, zeal, and passion became evident from a young age and precipitated his eventual rise.

He earned himself a move away from his neighborhood club Bakoteh United to Gambian top-flight club Steve Biko FC. Seeking to further his development even more, Minteh made the ambitious leap to Europe at just 18 years of age, joining Odense Boldklub (OB), a Danish Superliga side based in the city of Odense in southern Denmark. This pivotal move was all made possible by Bakary Bojang, a Gambian-born former player turned agent.

Ambitious Moves

At OB, Minteh quickly ascended through the youth ranks, spending just two months in the youth side before earning promotion to the first team due to his exceptional abilities. He marked his debut for OB with a remarkable performance, netting a sublime strike against FC Copenhagen in the 86th minute, just three minutes after coming on as a substitute in a Danish Superliga match in September 2022. Minteh’s goal secured a 2-1 victory for OB over Copenhagen.

Minteh’s exceptional speed remains one of his standout qualities, allowing him to trouble opposition defenders as he adeptly cuts inside from the right onto his favored left foot. His directness on the pitch is also unmistakable, its large contributing factor in his burgeoning reputation as a rising football talent.

On the 12th of June 2023, English Premier League club Newcastle United announced they had reached an agreement to sign Minteh from OB for €7 million and also disclosed plans to loan out Minteh to the Dutch champions Feyenoord for the 2023-24 season.

Under coach Arne Slot, Minteh was convinced that his development as a footballer would be a main focus as Feyenoord has a very successful track record of growing their own academy prospects. The teenager was handed his first foray into Dutch football in a substitute appearance in a 1-0 loss to PSV in the Johan Cruyff Shield.

Despite the debut defeat, Minteh possesses enormous potential and has continued to excite in Feyenoord’s colors. He has featured in 13 Eredivisie games this season, starting in 6 of those averaging 46 minutes per game and has 3 goals and 2 assists to his name so far in the Eredivisie, recording his first goal for Feyenoord in an emphatic 5-1 win against Utrecht in September of 2023.

Minteh’s Key Qualities

The young talent operates fearlessly on the right wing, effectively leveraging his phenomenal pace, agility, and tactical awareness. Standing at 6ft 2, he possesses formidable ability in the air. This is evidenced in his aerial duel success rate of 48%, which is in the 85th percentile for wingers in the Eredivisie.

His combination of physicality and technical prowess makes him a valuable asset for any team. Arne Slot’s team likes to counter press, and Minteh is very useful in this due to his imposing and aggressive out-of-possession actions. No winger in the Eredivisie has more tackles in the final third per 90 (0.79) than Minteh.

He showcased solid performances during Feyenoord’s campaign in the UEFA Champions League this season. Notably, he scored his first-ever Champions League goal, an equalizer against Scottish giants Celtic in the 82nd minute of their final Group E match. However, despite his efforts, Gustaf Lagerbielke’s goal in the first minute of additional time secured the win for Celtic.

Additionally, Minteh is part of the many young football talents in The Gambia’s rising national team having received his call-up to the national team on 4 Nov 2022 by their Belgian coach, Tom Saintfiet.

He was crucial to The Gambia’s second-ever qualification to the African Cup Of Nations in their final group game against Congo. His side was 2-0 down at halftime and clearly headed for elimination when they staged an unlikely comeback through his late strike and another from teammate Mohammed Badamosi to ensure that they shared the spoils which were enough to secure a second successive AFCON appearance for The Scorpions in the 34th edition of the tournament.

His Next Big Step

The youngster’s impressive and positive outings for Feyenoord gaining valuable experience, attaining immense growth, and overall development will be a great addition to Newcastle United’s team when his loan spell at Feyenoord comes to an end by the end of the season.

With Eddie Howe keen to utilize highly intense wingers out-of-possession, Minteh could be like a new signing next season. When compared to Anthony Gordon, who is having an excellent season nonetheless, Minteh fares better in the numbers in many ways.

For example, Minteh averages 10.7 touches in the opposition box per 90 compared to Gordon’s 4.02. For shot-creating actions per 90, Minteh’s 7.33 stacks up against Gordon’s 3.68. Lastly, Minteh trumps Gordon for tackles completed per 90, with Minteh on 1.60 and Gordon at just 1.05.

Therefore, it’s safe to conclude that while the Premier League is a huge jump from the Eredivisie, Minteh does possess many of the attributes we associate with Newcastle’s wingers under Eddie Howe and is even displaying them more often in Feyenoord colors.

Despite the success of its neighboring countries, The Gambia, a West African nation, is not typically associated with producing football talents. However, it has recently begun to nurture a budding star amidst its neighbors Nigeria, Ghana, and Senegal, all renowned for their football prowess and pro...

15/02/2024

The United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child has called upon the Spanish State to take "provisional measures" to ensure the safety and well-being of a 14-year-old boy from Gambia who has been living on the streets of Madrid for four days, as reported by the Raíces Foundation.

The minor, identified as AA, arrived in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria in August 2023, without family protection, and was subsequently moved by authorities to various locations, including Tenerife, Granada, and Barcelona. Despite carrying a photograph of his passport and birth certificate, AA was consistently treated as an adult, spending nights in different entities and enduring days outdoors, relying on soup kitchens for meals.

The Raíces Foundation, an NGO focused on children's rights, became aware of AA's case and assisted him in obtaining his original passport from Gambia at the end of 2023. The Gambian Embassy in Spain confirmed the authenticity of AA's passport, stating he was born on December 9, 2009, in Fajikunda, Gambia.

However, despite having proper documentation, AA was not enrolled in school during his stay at a juvenile center. The Foundation alleges that the Prosecutor’s Office later proposed medical tests to determine his age, despite the passport's authenticity being confirmed by expert police analysis.

In response to the subsequent uncertainty, the Public Entity for the Protection of Minors of the Community of Madrid issued a resolution to cease protection, resulting in AA being expelled to the streets on February 12.

Fundación Raíces, representing AA, sought urgent precautionary measures from the Courts of First Instance of Madrid on February 2, and later appealed to the United Nations on February 8, fearing irreparable harm to the minor.

In response to the UN's call for provisional measures, the Foundation has urgently forwarded the communication to relevant authorities in Madrid, urging them to take appropriate actions.

Fundación Raíces President, Lourdes Reyzábal, expressed concern over the delay in legislative reforms to the age determination procedure in Spain. Reyzábal emphasized the alarming abandonment of young individuals, particularly from Africa, and called attention to the thousands of children awaiting proper identification in the Canary Islands and hundreds in Madrid adult centers, many with documentation proving their minority status but lacking protection.

The adoption of provisional measures by the Committee does not preclude a thorough examination of the case, but it reflects the UN's previous concerns about the adequacy of age determination procedures for protecting children's rights in Spain.

The United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child has called upon the Spanish State to take "provisional measures" to ensure the safety and well-being of a 14-year-old boy from Gambia who has been living on the streets of Madrid for four days, as reported by the Raíces Foundation.The minor, i...

15/02/2024

In a tragic incident that unfolded on December 7, 2022, at London-Gatwick Airport (LGW), a man found hidden in the undercarriage of a TUI operated plane has been determined to have died from hyperthermia, as revealed in a recent court hearing in the United Kingdom.

The unidentified man's lifeless body was discovered by airport staff at around 4 am in the North Terminal. He was found nestled in the wheel well on the right side of a TUI Boeing 737-8 MAX that had just arrived from Banjul International Airport (BJL) in The Gambia at 3:30 am.

According to reports from the Evening Standard, the deceased was dressed in a dark-colored fleece top and tracksuit-type bottoms. Notably, he was without socks and wore plastic-style sandals. With no identification on the man, Sussex Police initiated an appeal for public assistance in the UK and The Gambia. An e-fit image of the man, believed to be in his 20s or 30s, was circulated in both countries.

Despite these efforts, Joanne Andrews, the area coroner for West Sussex, Brighton, and Hove, stated in the Chichester Coroner’s Court on February 14, 2024, that the man's identity remains unknown. "On the evidence, it is more likely than not I will have to record his death as an anonymous male. It is extremely sad he has not been able to be identified," she expressed.

The coroner reached a narrative conclusion during the inquest, suggesting that the man likely entered the undercarriage before takeoff. "There is no evidence of how he came to be within the plane, but he sadly died of hypothermia," added Andrews.

The journey from The Gambia to the UK spans over 3,500 miles, and temperatures at cruising altitude can plummet to as low as –55°C. The circumstances surrounding the man's presence in the undercarriage remain unclear.

While the inquest has been closed, the coroner advised that it could be reopened if new evidence emerges. The incident serves as a poignant reminder of the extreme risks associated with attempting to stow away in aircraft undercarriages, especially on long-haul flights where exposure to harsh conditions poses a grave danger to one's life.

In a tragic incident that unfolded on December 7, 2022, at London-Gatwick Airport (LGW), a man found hidden in the undercarriage of a TUI operated plane has been determined to have died from hyperthermia, as revealed in a recent court hearing in the United Kingdom.The unidentified man's lifeless bod...

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