PARLIAMENTARIAN OF THE YEAR – AWARD CITATION Honouring Maimuna Ceesay Darboe

PARLIAMENTARIAN OF THE YEAR – AWARD CITATION

Honouring Maimuna Ceesay Darboe

Today, we celebrate a leader whose service exemplifies integrity, courage, and results-driven representation. This Parliamentarian of the Year Award is proudly bestowed upon Honourable Maimuna Ceesay Darboe, a public servant whose record stands as a benchmark for accountability, effective leadership, and unwavering commitment to the people.

Honourable Maimuna Ceesay Darboe has distinguished herself as a parliamentarian who does not merely speak for the people, but delivers for them. According to National Audit Reports, her stewardship of the Constituency Development Fund has been exemplary—judiciously managed, transparently applied, and faithfully delivered to meet the real needs of her constituents. In an era where public trust is earned through action, her constituency stands as living proof of responsible governance.

Within the National Assembly, Honourable Maimuna is respected as a vocal, principled, and fearless advocate. She contributes meaningfully to debates, raises issues of national importance, and upholds the values of accountability and justice. Her voice is not only heard—it is heeded.

Beyond national borders, her leadership resonates at the regional level. As a distinguished member of the ECOWAS Parliament, Honourable Maimuna has earned recognition for her competence and diplomacy, culminating in her recent election as Committee Secretary—a testament to the confidence her peers place in her capacity to lead, organize, and deliver results on a regional stage.

Within the National People’s Party (NPP), Honourable Maimuna Ceesay Darboe remains a formidable political force—assertive, principled, and steadfast. As NPP Diaspora Secretary, she has demonstrated exceptional organizational leadership and dedication. Under her guidance, the NPP Diaspora achieved an unprecedented milestone, mobilizing and raising over 24 million Gambian Dalasis in support of the party’s campaign during the historic gathering in Bañola, Spain. This achievement stands as a powerful symbol of unity, trust, and effective leadership.

Honourable Maimuna’s journey is defined by service anchored in faith, discipline, and a deep sense of responsibility. She leads with conviction, serves with humility, and delivers with excellence—making her not only deserving of this honour, but a role model for present and future generations of leaders.

Anti-Crime Command Decorates Newly Promoted Officers

By JarranewsTV Staff Reporter, Banjul

The Anti-Crime Command of the Gambia Police Force on Friday held a decoration ceremony for newly promoted officers at the Anti-Crime Complex in Brufut, in a move aimed at recognising excellence, boosting morale, and reinforcing professionalism within the Force.

Twenty-five (25) officers, recently elevated to ranks ranging from Sergeant to Assistant Superintendent of Police, were formally decorated during the ceremony, which was attended by senior police officers, family members, and well-wishers.

Speaking on behalf of the Inspector General of Police, the Assistant Inspector General of Police for Operations, AIG Pateh Jallow, congratulated the officers on their promotions. He reminded them that higher rank comes with greater responsibility, increased leadership expectations, and heightened accountability to the public. He urged the officers to continue upholding discipline, integrity, and operational efficiency in the execution of their duties.

The Gambia Police Force called on all personnel to emulate the dedication, professionalism, and commitment demonstrated by the newly promoted officers. The Anti-Crime Command also commended the Police leadership for sustaining a merit-based promotion system, describing it as vital for motivation, institutional discipline, and strengthening public trust in the Police.

Response in Support of the NPP, Hon. Demba Sabally

A concern Citizen

 In a recent social media publication the United Democratic Party leader Ousainu Darboe while addressing market vendors warned the Inspector General of Police on what he calls selective justice.   It's not only unfair to let that statement slides under the drain but also duty bound to set the records straight.  Because Mr. Darbo was misleading the public as usual. 

While Mr. Darboe has every right to express his political concerns, it is important to remain truthful and fair when discussing issues of security, justice, and public responsibility. The attempt to equate Hon. Demba Sabally’s political remark with the explicit incitement issued by Borry Touray is misleading and ignores the fundamental difference between political rhetoric and a direct call to violent action.

Hon. Demba Sabally’s statement—interpreted by many as emphasizing the seriousness and commitment required to secure electoral victory—did not instruct anyone to kill, riot, or sacrifice their lives. Political figures around the world often use strong language to motivate their supporters, and while such expressions may be passionate, they do not automatically translate into a call for violence.

Borry Touray’s own public comments, however, crossed a very clear line.

He directly urged Gambian youths to take to the streets and riot like their Senegalese counterparts, even telling them to be ready to die. That is not political enthusiasm; it is incitement to violence. It is a call for unlawful actions that endanger lives, property, and national stability.

These two situations are not the same and should not be treated as such. The law rightly distinguishes between:

Political statements, even if emotional or provocative, and

Explicit calls for civil unrest and violence, which are criminal.

As for Mamma Jabbie or any other citizen—UDP, NPP, or otherwise—who may be accused of vulgar language or personal insults, the law already provides a clear path:

any affected individual has the right to pursue civil action in court.

This is how a democracy functions. It is not the job of the IGP to arrest citizens for political disagreements or social media banter unless the law has clearly been violated.

The claim that the IGP is selectively protecting NPP supporters is both unfair and unfounded. The police are dealing with an actual case of incitement to violence—not ordinary political rhetoric.

As we head toward 2026, Gambians should reject attempts to create false equivalencies.

The NPP continues to promote stability and lawful political engagement.

The government remains committed to peace and democratic process.

No political leader should encourage unrest or put the lives of young people at risk for political gain.

The country deserves a calm, factual, and responsible political environment—one where passion does not spill into recklessness, and where criticism does not distort the truth.

COMMENDATION TO HONOURABLE MAIMUNA CEESAY DARBOE

COMMENDATION TO HONOURABLE MAIMUNA CEESAY DARBOE

On Her Nomination for the National Achievement Award – Gambia (NAAG 2025)

It is with profound pride, admiration, and national gratitude that we commend Honourable Maimuna Ceesay Darboe on her well-deserved nomination for the Personality and Recognition Award under the National Achievement Award – Gambia (NAAG 2025).

This prestigious recognition stands as a powerful testament to your unwavering commitment to public service, your courage in leadership, and your unshakeable loyalty to the people you serve. You have distinguished yourself not merely as a National Assembly Member, but as a true servant-leader whose actions consistently place the welfare of your constituents above all else.

Honourable Maimuna Ceesay Darboe remains a rare symbol of integrity and accountability. At a time when public trust is sacred and leadership is measured by action, you have emerged as a shining example. The full and transparent delivery of constituency funds to the people is evidence of your sincerity, responsibility, and refusal to compromise on the trust placed in you.

Your voice in the National Assembly is one of courage. You stand firm where others hesitate. You speak boldly where silence would be convenient. You defend your people where others withdraw. Your leadership is anchored in purpose, and your loyalty is not to power, but to the people.

The nomination by AWOL-Gambia affirms what your community, colleagues, and nation already know:

That your dedication to nation-building, your representation of Gambian values, and your contribution to national development are worthy of honour and celebration.

This recognition is not just an award — it is a national salute.

May this milestone inspire even greater heights of service, and may your legacy continue to be one of honour, justice, and impact. The Gambia celebrates you. Your people are proud of you. History will remember you.

Congratulations, Honourable Maimuna Ceesay Darboe —

A leader of the people, a voice for the people, and a champion of the nation.

No Inclusion Without Investment: GFD Calls for Action

By Madi S. Njie

Farafenni, North Bank Region — December 4, 2025

Federation urges government, donors and the public to strengthen funding and policy support for persons with disabilities at its Farafenni AGM.

The Gambia Federation of the Disabled (GFD) on Thursday held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Farafenni, reflecting on a year of notable advances for persons with disabilities, while underscoring persistent financial and institutional challenges facing the organisation.

The meeting, hosted at Wallimann Hotel, drew representatives from 19 Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs), alongside board members and staff, to assess the Federation’s performance in 2025 and chart a path forward amid growing demand for inclusive development and stronger national backing.

Presenting the annual report, GFD Chairman, His Worship Muhammed Krubally, outlined achievements spanning employment creation, entrepreneurship, education and disaster preparedness. He highlighted the successful placement of a person with disability at the Mansa Koko Area Council as a significant milestone in the Federation’s push for workplace inclusion.

Krubally, who also serves as Principal Magistrate at the Banjul Magistrates’ Court and is the country’s only visually impaired magistrate, revealed that the Federation’s Special Needs Entrepreneurial Fund—launched in 2024 with support from the Human International Foundation—had trained and equipped 25 persons with disabilities in business skills during its first phase. A second phase in 2025 saw another 25 women graduate under the initiative, further strengthening economic self-reliance within the disability community.

In November 2025, GFD rolled out a micro-credit scheme, disbursing D1.5 million to 60 beneficiaries, each receiving D25,000 to boost small-scale enterprises.

On healthcare, the Chairman said the Federation conducted regional training sessions in first aid, health and hygiene to promote better access to essential services. GFD also strengthened collaboration with the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) to promote disability inclusion in disaster preparedness and response mechanisms.

Inclusive Education and Advocacy Drive

Inclusive education remained central to the Federation’s agenda. GFD, in partnership with the National Council for Civic Education (NCCE), developed a specialised training manual for teaching learners with disabilities, aimed at improving learning outcomes and accessibility in schools nationwide.

Krubally further reported on advocacy milestones, referencing The Gambia’s ratification of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights in 2024. He urged the government to reinforce its international commitments by adopting the Oxfam Protocol alongside the already ratified Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).

Financial Realities and Resource Mobilisation

Resource mobilisation emerged as a recurring concern during deliberations. Acting Executive Director Sainey Camara acknowledged that while approximately 40 per cent of funding now comes from reliable donors, financial limitations continue to constrain operations.

Treasurer Ousman Bojang presented the 2024 financial report, revealing a total income of D5.57 million—of which D3.6 million originated from the national treasury. Expenditures stood at D3.3 million, leaving a net balance of D2.27 million. Bojang assured the gathering that financial management remained transparent and accountable.

Capacity Gaps and Policy Endorsements

Members raised concerns over staffing constraints and limited funding, calling for intensified fundraising, volunteer recruitment and strategic partnerships to enhance service delivery. The AGM also approved new policies on finance, human resources and resource mobilisation to align GFD with international best practices and donor requirements.

Camara also disclosed that new disability groups from the Central River Region have submitted applications for membership, pointing to the Federation’s growing national footprint. Dedicated structures for women, youth and elderly persons with disabilities have also been established to enhance representation and inclusion.

The meeting closed with renewed calls for collective responsibility in advancing disability rights and programmes, particularly ahead of the 2026 national elections.

The AGM followed commemorations of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) on December 3, marked by a parade led by the Farafenni Scout Band and addresses from regional authorities, including the North Bank Region Governor and the Chairman of the Kerewan Area Council.

As it moves into 2026, the Federation reaffirmed its commitment to securing equal opportunities, dignity and participation for persons with disabilities across The Gambia.

Police Arrest Suspect in Alleged Murder of Woman in Brikama Misira

By JarranewsTV Staff Reporter, Banjul

The Gambia Police Force has announced the arrest of a suspect in connection with the alleged murder of a woman in Brikama Misira.

According to police, the suspect—identified as Sulayman Saidykhan, 26, a native of Bakary Sambouya—is alleged to be linked to the killing of Fatou Sambou, a resident of Kembujeh Madina.

Investigators disclosed that the suspect has made new statements which contradict his earlier account. He initially claimed to be a former member of The Gambia Armed Forces who was dismissed in 2014 over drug-related offences. However, during further questioning, he recanted and said the claim was false, explaining instead that he only lived at Yundum Barracks with his brother, who is no longer serving in the military.

Police also stated that the suspect admitted the military trousers he wore at the time of his arrest were not issued to him by the armed forces but were given to him by a friend.

The Gambia Police Force has reassured the public of its commitment to a thorough, impartial and transparent investigation, adding that further updates will be provided as inquiries continue.