From Banjul to Dakar: The Dangerous Illusion of Political “Alpha and Omega”

By Yaya Dampha, NPP Diaspora Coordinator – Sweden

Alagi Yorro Jallow’s reflection comes at a moment when Senegal must carefully navigate the balance between constitutional order and political personality. His central message is both clear and timeless: in a republic, no individual can claim to be the sole guardian of a political movement or the exclusive owner of a national mandate.
West African political history offers many lessons, and The Gambia provides a revealing example. 

For decades, lawyer was widely regarded as the central figure of opposition politics and leader of the . Despite his prominence and persistence, the opposition under his leadership was unable to defeat the long-time ruler in four successive presidential elections.
During those years, numerous attempts were made to build a united opposition front in The Gambia. However, many of these coalition efforts struggled to gain traction. Critics argued that disagreements over leadership—particularly the question of who should serve as coalition flagbearer—often stalled negotiations and prevented the opposition from forming a united electoral strategy.
Ironically, circumstances eventually changed the political landscape. When Darboe was imprisoned in 2016 during protests against the Jammeh government, opposition parties moved forward with negotiations that ultimately produced a unified coalition. That coalition went on to defeat Jammeh in the historic , bringing to the presidency.
Many Gambians view those events through different lenses—some politically, others spiritually—arguing that Darboe’s absence from the political arena at that critical moment created the conditions for unity among opposition parties determined to end Jammeh’s rule.
A similar narrative of circumstance and political realignment can be observed in Senegal. The legal challenges faced by opposition figure , which prevented him from contesting the presidency, reshaped the political contest. His political ally, , ultimately emerged as the candidate who unified supporters and secured victory in the .
These experiences from Banjul to Dakar highlight a broader democratic lesson. Political movements may rally around charismatic figures, but no individual should be seen as the beginning and the end—the “alpha and omega”—of a national political struggle. Parties mobilize supporters, but republics derive their authority from institutions, laws, and the sovereign will of the people.
History consistently demonstrates that when leaders begin to view themselves as indispensable, they risk confusing personal popularity with political ownership of the state.
The Gambian experience illustrates a simple truth: alliances evolve, movements adapt, and institutions must ultimately outlast personalities. Senegal, like The Gambia before it, faces the ongoing responsibility of strengthening democratic institutions rather than elevating any single political figure above them.
In the end, the stability of a republic depends not on heroic myths but on constitutional discipline, institutional strength, and the collective will of its citizens. The true guardian of any democratic state is not an individual leader, but the constitution that binds the nation together.

British and Gambian Wrestling Bodies Sign Cooperation Agreement in London

By JarranewsTV Staff Reporter

London, 6 March 2026 — The and the have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening cooperation in the development of wrestling, youth empowerment, and cultural exchange between the two organisations.

The a

greement was signed in London by Craig Anthony of the British Wrestling Association and Matarr Saine of the Gambia Wrestling Association. The ceremony took place at the in the presence of , The Gambia’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom.

Also in attendance was , International Relations representative for British Wrestling and a member of the .

The MoU establishes a knowledge partnership between the two federations, reflecting a shared commitment to promoting wrestling as both a competitive sport and a platform for cultural exchange, youth development, and social cohesion.

Officials from both organisations highlighted the importance of connecting different wrestling traditions. The agreement recognises the deep cultural heritage of Gambian traditional wrestling, locally known as Boreh, alongside the established development of Olympic-style wrestling in the United Kingdom. It also identifies beach wrestling as an emerging area of global interest where both federations see opportunities for collaboration.

Under the agreement, the two bodies will cooperate in several key areas, including technical and coaching exchanges. This will involve sharing expertise in Olympic wrestling styles, traditional Gambian wrestling techniques, and beach wrestling training methods.

The partnership will also promote cultural and fan engagement through the exchange of best practices in community participation, event organisation, and the promotion of wrestling at both grassroots and international levels.

Another important component of the agreement focuses on governance and integrity in sport. The federations plan to share safeguarding frameworks and consult on governance models that align with international sporting standards.

Youth development will form a central pillar of the cooperation. Planned initiatives include youth training camps, mentorship programmes, and projects designed to increase participation in wrestling, with a particular emphasis on improving gender inclusion within the sport.

The MoU further opens avenues for strategic advocacy and international cooperation, including exploring opportunities within global wrestling structures and seeking support from programmes such as Olympic Solidarity and Commonwealth sport development initiatives.

Speakers at the ceremony said the agreement reflects the strong spirit of friendship between the United Kingdom and The Gambia, and the belief that sport can serve as a bridge between cultures.

The Memorandum of Understanding is non-binding and does not impose financial obligations on either organisation. Each party will bear its own costs for activities carried out under the cooperation.

Signed in London on 6 March 2026, the agreement will remain in effect for two years, with the possibility of extension by mutual consent.

Staff of the Gambian diplomatic mission in London were also present at the signing ceremony.

Ends.

GRA’s Digital Transformation Delivers Record Revenue as C G Darboe Commends President Barrow’s Support

By JarraNews TV Staff Reporter

The Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) has celebrated a landmark achievement in national revenue mobilization, announcing a historic collection of more than D25 billion in 2025, the highest in the institution’s history. The milestone reflects the remarkable success of the Authority’s modernization agenda under the leadership of Commissioner General Yankuba Darboe and the steadfast political support provided by the government of President Adama Barrow.

Speaking at the GRA headquarters in Banjul, Commissioner General Darboe attributed the record-breaking performance to the Authority’s bold digital transformation and the enabling policy environment created by President Barrow’s administration. He noted that the government’s unwavering commitment to reform has empowered the GRA to close long-standing loopholes, strengthen compliance, and significantly enhance the efficiency and transparency of tax administration.

According to Commissioner General Darboe, the Authority’s modernization drive has fundamentally reshaped the way revenue is collected in The Gambia. Through the introduction of electronic tax filing, online payment systems, and integrated digital platforms, the GRA has streamlined tax processes, minimized human error, and drastically reduced revenue leakages.

“These reforms have transformed our operations,” Darboe said. “With the continued support of His Excellency President Adama Barrow, the GRA has been able to modernize its systems and ensure that national revenue is collected more efficiently and transparently for the benefit of the Gambian people.”

The Commissioner General highlighted the dramatic progress made over the past decade. Around 2016, he explained, annual revenue collections averaged between D5 billion and D6 billion. Today, following years of reform and modernization, the Authority has surpassed D25.3 billion, representing a major leap in the country’s domestic resource mobilization.

Darboe emphasized that the GRA’s achievements are aligned with a broader national vision of economic self-reliance, where The Gambia increasingly funds its development priorities through domestically generated resources rather than external aid.

“The vision of every revenue authority is to help build a self-reliant nation,” he stated. “Meaningful development can only be achieved when we mobilize our own domestic revenue and support government in delivering infrastructure, social services, and economic growth. As a country, we can no longer rely solely on donors or external grants. Our reforms are helping The Gambia take greater ownership of its development.”

While commending the dedication and professionalism of GRA staff, the Commissioner General stressed that the Authority’s success would not have been possible without strong political will from the highest levels of government.

“Reforms are never easy,” he explained. “When reforms close leakages and strengthen systems, those who previously benefited from inefficiencies may resist change. That is why political backing is essential. In The Gambia, we are fortunate that the first champions of our reforms are His Excellency the President, the Cabinet, and the entire government.”

Observers note that the record revenue collection highlights the GRA’s growing role as a cornerstone of national development. With stronger systems, enhanced transparency, and sustained reforms, the Authority is now better positioned to support fiscal stability and fund key government programs.

Commissioner General Darboe reaffirmed the GRA’s commitment to deepening digitalization, strengthening institutional integrity, and maintaining transparency in revenue administration. He also emphasized that continued collaboration between the Authority and the government will remain critical in sustaining progress.

“The secret behind the success of the Gambia Revenue Authority is clear,” Darboe concluded. “When reforms are properly explained and supported at the highest level, implementation becomes easier and results follow. With the strong political support we enjoy, we will continue strengthening our systems and contributing meaningfully to The Gambia’s development.”

As the GRA celebrates this historic achievement, the Authority’s performance stands as a powerful testament to the impact of visionary leadership, digital innovation, and firm political support in building a stronger and more resilient Gambian economy.

Tri-vergence or Turmoil? Opposition’s “Harmony Pact” Sparks Questions Ahead of December Showdown

By Yaya Dampha NPP Diaspora Coordinator, Sweden

The recent announcement by six opposition parties in The Gambia that they have signed what they call a “Harmony Pact” under the banner of the Tri-vergence Accord has been presented as a step toward unity ahead of the December 5 presidential election. However, beneath the appealing language of cooperation and good faith lies a number of serious political questions.

At its core, the accord is described as a voluntary and non-binding moral commitment designed to reduce hostility and mistrust among rival camps. Yet the very need for such a pact exposes the deep divisions within the opposition. If genuine trust and shared purpose already existed, there would be no requirement for a formal agreement instructing members and supporters to avoid inflammatory rhetoric.

The pact does not resolve the central issue confronting the opposition: leadership. Multiple presidential aspirants remain in competition, each seeking to secure the coalition ticket. Ambition, ego, and political survival are powerful forces. Without a clear and agreed leadership structure, declarations of harmony risk being symbolic rather than substantive.

Furthermore, the agreement calls on party members and supporters to refrain from incitement and public hostility. However, much of the antagonism in Gambian politics occurs online and at the grassroots level. If party executives truly exercise discipline and command loyalty within their ranks, such hostilities would already be under control. The gap between official pronouncements and the behavior of supporters raises legitimate doubts about enforcement and sincerity.

Another point worth noting is that the pact is not legally binding. It carries no enforceable consequences should any party withdraw or violate its spirit. In a political environment where alliances shift quickly, a moral commitment without institutional safeguards provides little assurance of stability.

While opposition figures continue to criticize the government, they have yet to convincingly articulate a unified alternative program that inspires broad national confidence. Persistent attacks, without a clear and cohesive policy vision, may signal frustration more than readiness to govern.

In contrast, supporters of the remain confident in the record of development and governance delivered to the Gambian people. Elections are ultimately decided not by press statements or symbolic accords, but by credibility, performance, and trust.

The so-called Tri-vergence Accord may represent an attempt at damage control or internal confidence-building. However, unity must be demonstrated through action, clarity of leadership, and consistent messaging—not merely through carefully crafted communiqués.

As the campaign season approaches, Gambians will be watching closely. Whether this pact marks the beginning of genuine convergence or merely reflects coordinated confusion remains to be seen.

Customs Seaport Lauds Excellence as Three Officers Attain New Heights

By JarranewsTV Staff Reporter

In a powerful display of institutional pride and professional advancement, the Customs Seaport on Monday, 2 March 2026, hosted a dignified decoration ceremony celebrating the promotion of three outstanding officers—an event that underscored the Service’s unwavering commitment to excellence, discipline, and national service.

The ceremony, held at the Seaport Longroom, was led by the indefatigable Seaport Customs Manager, , whose leadership continues to inspire confidence and progress within the ranks. Addressing officers and guests, Mr. Mendy extended heartfelt appreciation to (GRA) Management for fostering an enabling environment that rewards merit, dedication, and professionalism across the Customs Service.

At the height of the ceremony, senior officer Njunka Njie received the highest promotion, personally decorated by the Customs Manager himself—a moment greeted with resounding applause. This was followed by the decoration of Aminta Jarjue (Sub-Officer II) by Senior Officer Foday Drammeh. In a proud testament to the institution’s steadfast commitment to gender balance and inclusion, Roheyatou Minteh (Sub-Officer III) was decorated by Binta Jammeh, symbolizing empowerment and equal opportunity within the Service.

In his closing remarks, Manager Mendy reaffirmed Management’s deep awareness of the Seaport’s strategic importance in the national revenue drive. He paid glowing tribute to the tireless sacrifices of officers who diligently serve long hours—from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.—to safeguard national economic interests.

Invoking a timeless principle of public service, he charged all officers to uphold integrity and excellence at all times, reminding them that, “To whom much is given, much is expected.” He urged continued commitment to doing the right thing—whether under supervision or not—thereby reinforcing the noble values that define the Customs Service.

The ceremony ended on a high note, leaving officers energized and reaffirmed in their duty to serve the nation with honor, loyalty, and professionalism.

Drug Smuggler Arrested at Mile 2 Prison

By JarranewsTV Staff Reporter
Dated: 27 February 2026

In an act authorities have described as reckless and unlawful, a young man allegedly attempted to smuggle illicit drugs into Mile 2 Central Prison under the pretext of delivering food items to a friend.

Prison authorities confirmed that the suspect, identified as , a resident of Abuko, was arrested on Friday, 27 February 2026, while visiting the prison to deliver provisions to a remand prisoner.

According to officials, routine security screening carried out by prison officers led to the discovery of approximately twenty-two (22) wraps of a suspected prohibited substance locally known as “coos.” The substance was allegedly concealed inside packets of noodles and was detected during standard inspection procedures.

Mr. Amadou Tijan Sowe was immediately taken into custody and subsequently handed over to the (DLEAG) for further investigation. Authorities said he is expected to be charged in accordance with the country’s drug control laws.

The Prison Authorities, working in close collaboration with DLEAG, reiterated their firm commitment to combating drug trafficking and maintaining security and order within all correctional facilities nationwide. They cautioned that any attempt to smuggle prohibited items into prisons constitutes a serious criminal offence and will be met with the full force of the law.

Members of the public have been urged to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in the ongoing fight against illegal drug trafficking and other criminal activities.