President Adama Barrow – A Beacon of Democracy in Africa

In an era where democracy is under siege across many parts of the world, President Adama Barrow of The Gambia stands out as a bold example of leadership rooted in tolerance, freedom, and the rule of law. His tenure has ushered in a new dawn for the Gambian people—one that is marked by open dialogue, respect for dissent, and unwavering commitment to democratic principles. Nowhere is this more evident than in the way opposition parties and activists are allowed to freely express themselves. Demonstrations that were once unthinkable under the oppressive regime of Yahya Jammeh are now commonplace, conducted under the protection of the very institutions that once silenced them. Police escorts for opposition protests? That is not weakness—it is maturity. It is democracy in action. It is a clear signal that the government of President Barrow values human rights, political inclusivity, and national unity over autocratic control. Even more telling is the transformation within the diaspora community. Gambians who once whispered in fear under Jammeh’s iron-fisted rule are now confidently voicing their opinions—on social media, at town halls, and in international forums. They criticize, debate, and organize freely, knowing they will not be hunted down, harassed, or exiled for daring to speak up. This shift is not just symbolic—it is revolutionary. And it happened under President Barrow’s watch.

Some may take this freedom for granted. But those who understand the scars of dictatorship know how significant this democratic space truly is. It takes courage to open the doors of dissent. It takes even greater strength to protect those who criticize you. And this is precisely what Barrow has done—and continues to do. As The Gambia approaches the 2026 presidential elections, the choice could not be clearer. President Barrow has not only restored democratic norms but has entrenched them in the national consciousness. He has proven that leadership does not mean silencing others, but listening to them. He has shown Africa and the world that it is possible to lead with dignity, humility, and strength without resorting to fear or force. For all these reasons, President Adama Barrow deserves another term. The journey toward a fully mature democracy is not yet complete—but under his leadership, The Gambia is well on its way. Let the people speak, let the democracy thrive—and let Barrow continue to lead.

Mpox Case Confirmed in The Gambia:

Ministry of Health Issues Public Alert BANJUL – The Gambia's Ministry of Health has confirmed a case of Mpox detected through routine surveillance on July 18, 2025. The confirmation follows a recent increase in Mpox cases globally, prompting the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare the disease a Public Health Emergency of Continental and International Concern in August 2024. In response to the growing threat, The Gambia’s Ministry of Health, alongside international partners, has been closely monitoring the situation and boosting its preparedness measures. This includes enhanced disease surveillance and expanded testing capacity nationwide. The confirmed case marks the first known infection in The Gambia this year. The Ministry emphasizes that the single detection does not necessarily indicate widespread transmission. However, steps are being taken to contain the situation swiftly. Contact tracing and further investigations are already underway. Officials reassured the public that the case is stable and under medical observation, with no immediate signs of wider spread. Community engagement efforts have been launched, including search and containment strategies, to prevent any possible outbreak. Health workers have received training and are on alert to manage the situation efficiently. What Is Mpox?

Mpox is a viral disease that can spread from animals to humans and also between humans. Transmission occurs through direct contact with infected individuals, especially via skin, saliva, respiratory secretions, or bodily fluids. It can also be spread during childbirth or through close skin-to-skin contact with someone who has symptoms.

Symptoms typically include fever, muscle aches, back pain, swollen lymph nodes, and a distinctive rash. The rash often appears on the face, hands, feet, genitals, or around the anus. Lesions may be painful and go through several stages before healing. The Ministry of Health is urging the public to remain calm but vigilant, follow health guidelines, and report any unusual symptoms to nearby health facilities.

CG Yankuba Darboe and His Visionary Team Leading GRA to New Heights

Commissioner General Yankuba Darboe and His Visionary Team Leading GRA to New Heights In a compelling display of leadership and innovation, Commissioner General Yankuba Darboe and his dynamic team at the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) continue to set a bold new standard for revenue administration in The Gambia. At a recent high-level engagement, CG Darboe reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to enhancing tax compliance, modernizing operations, and strengthening stakeholder collaboration. His remarks underscored a results-driven vision focused on national development, transparency, and service excellence.

Flanked by top officials from the GRA, including key directors and technical staff, CG Darboe highlighted the Authority’s strategic reforms aimed at making revenue collection more efficient and taxpayer-friendly. These efforts have already begun yielding significant dividends, with record revenue mobilization and increased public trust in the GRA’s mandate. Under his leadership, the GRA has embraced digital transformation, enhanced staff capacity, and fostered strong partnerships with both local and international institutions. The Commissioner General’s forward-thinking approach continues to inspire confidence among taxpayers, development partners, and government stakeholders alike. As the face of a progressive, accountable, and service-oriented institution, Commissioner General Yankuba Darboe and his team are not just managing revenue—they are building the financial backbone of a brighter future for The Gambia.

Dr. Lang Fafa Dampha Calls for Legal Reform to Strengthen China-Africa Trade Ties

In a powerful address at the Fifth China-Africa Cooperation Legal Forum (FOCAC), Dr. Lang Fafa Dampha, Executive Director of the Pan-African Centre for Cultures and Languages (PACCL), called for urgent reforms in the legal frameworks governing China-Africa economic relations. He stressed that overhauling current dispute resolution mechanisms is vital to securing the future of the burgeoning trade partnership—now valued at more than $250 billion annually. Speaking in Changsha, China, Dr. Dampha warned that the rapid expansion of trade, investment, and infrastructure projects between China and African nations will inevitably lead to an increase in commercial disputes. “Disputes are a natural consequence of complex and growing trade relationships,” he said. “The focus should not be on their elimination, but on managing them fairly, efficiently, and accessibly.” The legal forum, held on July 11–12, was hosted by the China Law Society in partnership with Xiangtan University, the Human Law Society, and the China Legal Exchange Centre. This year’s theme—Building Trust, Managing Risk, and Ensuring Long-Term Sustainability—set the stage for Dr. Dampha’s appeal for systemic legal reform. He outlined major barriers to effective dispute resolution: legal uncertainty, difficulties enforcing foreign judgments and international arbitration awards, a shortage of professionals trained in international commercial law, and procedural delays. He also cited challenges stemming from divergent legal traditions (common law, civil law, and customary law), language barriers, and conflicting cultural expectations. “These issues call for more than procedural tweaks—they demand coordinated reform,” Dr. Dampha asserted. He proposed a five-pronged strategy to build a robust, culturally responsive legal infrastructure: 1. Establish regional dispute resolution hubs in key African trade centers—such as Nairobi, Lagos, Johannesburg, Kinshasa, and Cairo—that combine local legal knowledge with internationally recognised standards. 2. Launch specialised training programmes for judges, lawyers, and arbitrators focused on China-Africa commercial disputes. 3. Promote legal harmonisation by encouraging the adoption of UNCITRAL model laws and securing universal ratification of the New York Convention across African jurisdictions. 4. Leverage technology, including Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) platforms, to improve access and reduce costs. 5. Integrate hybrid and culturally sensitive mechanisms, such as mediation followed by arbitration, and respect traditional dispute resolution practices where appropriate. Dr. Dampha emphasised that success hinges on strong political will and institutional collaboration. He urged African institutions—including the African Union, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat, and Regional Economic Communities—to lead the charge in harmonising legal systems and cross-border enforcement. He also called on China to take an active role: “China can play a key part by funding infrastructure, supporting capacity building, and co-establishing dispute resolution centers that reflect African legal traditions and languages.” Describing legal reform as a “strategic investment in legal infrastructure,” Dr. Dampha argued that a modern, accessible, and trusted dispute resolution system is fundamental to long-term economic stability and investor confidence. “With a blend of international best practices, regional innovation, and shared political commitment,” he concluded, “Africa and China can build a legal foundation strong enough to support a thriving and equitable economic partnership.” Dr. Dampha’s remarks resonated with delegates from across the continent and China, as both sides acknowledged the growing importance of legal cooperation in shaping the future of China-Africa relations.

Editorial | JarraNewsTV Defending Integrity: Mrs. Anna Jarju Deserves Our Respect, Not Ridicule

In a time when accountability and professionalism in public service are in short supply, Mrs. Anna Jarju of the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) stood tall — only to become the target of unjust attacks. Following a now-publicized incident involving international footballer Musa Barrow at Banjul International Airport on July 11, 2025, certain social media users and unprincipled media outlets have launched a smear campaign against this dedicated public servant. Let’s be clear: Mrs. Jarju did her job. She followed procedure. She upheld the law. According to an official statement from the GRA, Mr. Barrow arrived in Banjul on a Turkish Airlines flight with five suitcases, all of which were flagged during standard customs screening. Instead of personally cooperating with customs officers — as is expected of every traveler, regardless of their status — Mr. Barrow delegated the task to his brother and others, and refused multiple requests to come forward for inspection. His representatives failed to produce proper documentation for the contents of the luggage, leading to the imposition of customs duties which were later reduced after internal discussions. Throughout this incident, Mrs. Anna Jarju — the GRA Shift Supervisor — conducted herself with integrity and professionalism. Contrary to false reports, she was not present during the initial scanning, and when approached later, she acted in full compliance with established protocols. CCTV footage with audio, reviewed by GRA authorities, confirms this. Yet, despite her measured conduct, she has become a punching bag for online commentators and gossip-hungry media houses that seem more interested in clicks than truth. The Real Issue: Rule of Law vs. Celebrity Privilege This situation is not about personal grievances or social status — it’s about the rule of law. The Gambia cannot afford a society where celebrity or wealth becomes a shield from legal obligations. Customs procedures exist for a reason. They are part of a broader tax system that supports national development — funding our hospitals, schools, roads, and essential services. It is every citizen’s duty — from the farmer in Janjanbureh to the footballer in Milan — to pay taxes or go through the lawful process of seeking a duty waiver. That is how functioning societies operate. If someone believes they are entitled to an exemption, let them submit the necessary paperwork — not send emissaries to argue their case in the airport terminal. Public Servants Are Not the Enemy Mrs. Jarju is not the villain in this story. She is a reflection of the kind of public servant The Gambia desperately needs — principled, composed, and unwavering in the face of pressure. To attack her character for fulfilling her responsibilities is not only unfair; it sends a dangerous message to other officers: “Do your job, and we’ll tear you down for it.” We must ask ourselves: do we want a country where public officials are bullied into silence, or one where the law applies to all — equally and consistently? A Word to the Online Mob To those on social media who have turned this incident into a circus: freedom of expression is a right — but truth is a responsibility. Misinformation, tribal sentiments, and personal attacks erode the very foundation of the justice you claim to defend. If your goal is accountability, then let your advocacy be guided by facts, not fiction. Conclusion: Let Us Stand by Those Who Stand for the Law

JarraNewsTV stands in full support of Mrs. Anna Jarju and all law-abiding customs officers across the country. Their job is not glamorous. It is often thankless. But it is vital to the integrity and sovereignty of our nation. In defending Anna Jarju, we defend professionalism. We defend justice. And we affirm, once again, that no one is above the law — not even our heroes in cleats. — JarraNewsTV Editorial Board

GRA Clarifies Incident Involving International Footballer Musa Barrow at Banjul Airport

GRA Clarifies Incident Involving International Footballer Musa Barrow at Banjul Airport The Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) has issued a formal statement to address the recent incident involving Gambian international footballer Musa Barrow at Banjul International Airport on July 11, 2025. According to the GRA, Mr. Barrow arrived via Turkish Airlines at approximately 7:00 PM. Upon arrival, his five suitcases were flagged during mandatory luggage screening. This process was conducted by a joint airport security task force made up of the GRA, Drug Law Enforcement Agency (DLEAG), State Intelligence Services (SIS), Food Safety Unit, and Public Health officials. The suitcases were flagged by the Image Analyst over customs-related concerns. The GRA states that Mr. Barrow did not personally engage with customs officers after being informed of the flagged luggage. Instead, his brother and several associates attempted to present the bags to GRA Shift Supervisor Mrs. Anna Jarju, who was not present during the initial screening. Despite repeated requests, Mr. Barrow reportedly refused to come forward for inspection. His brother, acting on his behalf, opened the luggage but failed to produce any invoices or documents to support the declared contents. Due to the lack of proper valuation documentation, customs duties were initially estimated at D15,000 (D2,500 per suitcase) but later reduced to D10,000. Mr. Barrow, through his brother, reportedly claimed an inability to pay the revised amount. GRA officials held a private meeting with the footballer and ultimately allowed him to leave without payment, issuing a stern warning to ensure future compliance. In its statement, the GRA emphasized that all individuals, regardless of status or fame, are subject to the same customs procedures. The Authority also praised the professionalism and integrity of its staff, especially Mrs. Anna Jarju, whose conduct was reportedly in line with standard protocols. The incident, GRA confirmed, was captured on CCTV footage with audio. Furthermore, the Authority reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy on staff misconduct and noted that a dedicated Internal Affairs Unit is in place to investigate and enforce disciplinary actions when necessary. The GRA reiterated its commitment to transparency, professionalism, and the enforcement of national laws. The Authority concluded by urging all travelers to cooperate fully with customs officials to support the protection of The Gambia’s economy and national security. — GRA Management

Businessman Pays Over D1.3 Million for BCC Land, Still Denied Access Seven Years On

By JarraNews Staff Reporter Gambian Businessman Pays Over D1.3 Million for BCC Land, Still Denied Access Seven Years On Banjul — A Gambian businessman who says he paid over D1.3 million to the Banjul City Council (BCC) for a plot of land has told the Local Government Commission of Inquiry that, despite making substantial payments, he has yet to take possession of the land—more than seven years after it was first allocated to him. Momodou Korka Jallow testified before the Commission on Tuesday, revealing that he applied for a plot after learning that land allocations were being made to others. His application, he said, was approved, and he was allocated a parcel measuring 175 by 125 meters. He was asked to pay D2 million for the property. “I was only given a letter indicating that I should pay D2 million,” Jallow told the Commission, stating that no negotiations took place over the amount. Under questioning from Lead Counsel Patrick Gomez, Jallow confirmed that he accepted the price as quoted. Jallow said he began payments toward the D2 million fee, ultimately paying around D1.3 million before halting in 2022. He explained that he was advised not to proceed further after learning that an embargo had been placed on land transactions under review. He supported his testimony with a lease agreement dated 2017 and ten payment receipts issued by the BCC, all of which were submitted into evidence. Despite these payments, he said, the land remains out of his reach. The allocation, Jallow noted, was made during the tenure of the late Mayor Abdoulie Bah, whom he described as “a friend.” He stopped short of alleging misconduct but emphasized that the process has been stalled ever since. “Since then, I have been struggling to possess the land,” Jallow said. “I was told the issue would be resolved, and I am still waiting.” The Commission asked Jallow to provide further documentation, including his application letter, the approval, and all related correspondence with the BCC. His testimony comes amid a sweeping probe by the Local Government Commission of Inquiry into land allocations, procurement, and financial practices across local councils between May 2018 and January 2023. The inquiry is part of a broader effort to promote transparency and accountability in local governance. The hearings continue.

Land Sale Sparks Scrutiny of Banjul City Council Dealings

By JarraNews Staff Reporter Banjul, The Gambia — A Lebanese-Gambian businessman at the center of a controversial land transaction in the capital has admitted profiting over D13 million from the sale of a public property, despite having no formal lease or signed agreement with the Banjul City Council (BCC). Testifying before the Local Government Commission of Inquiry, Sharbel Elhajj revealed he purchased a plot of council land for D2 million in 2018 and later sold it to EMK Stores, owned by businessman Nandu, for D15 million. Elhajj’s testimony unfolded over two days and exposed a murky chain of verbal proposals, informal payments, and administrative ambiguity—raising fresh questions about the city council’s land management practices under the previous administration. A Deal Without Documentation Elhajj told the commission that he initially approached the BCC with a proposal to develop a warehouse and packaging facility along Bond Road. However, the project—allegedly pitched by a Nigerian company called Fuwani—never materialized. “There was no feasibility study,” Elhajj admitted. “I could not have waited for it. Time is of essence.” Instead of the requested Bond Road site, BCC allocated him a plot behind the National Assembly. Elhajj said he paid D2 million to the council’s account before inspecting the land—a decision that raised eyebrows during cross-examination by Lead Counsel Patrick Gomez. “Who pays for land before seeing it?” Gomez asked. “Will you do that under normal business conditions?” “No,” Elhajj replied, “but maybe that was BCC’s procedure.” Fuwani later rejected the site, and Elhajj turned to EMK Stores, arranging to have the land transferred despite lacking legal ownership. Profiting from Public Property On April 16, 2019, Elhajj wrote to the BCC’s Chief Executive Officer requesting that the land be transferred to EMK Stores. Though he had no formal lease, the transaction proceeded—culminating in a D15 million deal with EMK. “You don’t have a land. You don’t have anything to sell,” Gomez said during questioning. “Yet you made D13 million.” Elhajj responded: “If you do A minus B, that is correct... But there were risks involved.” BCC’s former CEO Mustapha Batchilly confirmed that Elhajj had paid D2 million to the council and that his application was approved by the Council, following a referral from the Mayor. However, Batchilly admitted no lease was ever issued. “We just used the letter [from Elhajj] to transfer the land to EMK Stores,” Batchilly testified. “That letter was not a power of attorney,” Gomez retorted. “Council did not authorize the transfer.” Questions Over Origin of Funds Further scrutiny revealed that the D2 million Elhajj used to pay BCC may have originated from Nandu himself, casting doubt on Elhajj’s claim that Fuwani was the original partner. “There was no Nigerian company,” Gomez concluded. “Nandu was in the picture all along.” Elhajj admitted he sought out Nandu only after the Fuwani deal collapsed. “That deal failed,” he said. Yet Gomez remained unconvinced, arguing that the entire Fuwani narrative may have been a fabrication to secure the land. A breakdown of payments submitted to the Commission showed Elhajj received D10.8 million from EMK Stores, with two cheques dated August 2020 tendered as evidence. The agreement between Elhajj’s firm, C-Consulting, and EMK Stores stipulated that D5 million would be paid to the council—though BCC records show only the initial D2 million was received. When asked about the size of the abandoned project, Elhajj claimed it was valued at $20 million. “Where can we find documentation for that?” Gomez asked. “Nowhere,” Elhajj admitted. Mayor in the Dark? Batchilly, who described himself as “shocked” upon learning of the D15 million deal, testified that he had contacted the Mayor via WhatsApp to ask whether she was aware of the transaction. “She said she wasn’t,” Batchilly said. He also cast doubt on EMK’s later claim to have invested D35 million in the site, particularly in backfilling. “I don’t know about that money,” he said. “D33 million for backfilling does not make sense.” Gomez agreed: “That reasoning is simply implausible.” Commission Demands Clarity As the hearing concluded, the Commission requested a full list of all land allocations made by the BCC during the relevant period. Batchilly promised to provide the list on June 3. The inquiry has spotlighted what appears to be a pattern of informal arrangements and private profiteering from public land—without the necessary documentation, oversight, or due diligence. “You don’t have land. You don’t have anything to sell,” Gomez said in closing. “Yet you walked away with millions.” Elhajj’s response was stark: “It is business.”

President Barrow Appoints New IEC Chairman and Vice Chairman

Banjul – In a significant development at the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), His Excellency President Adama Barrow has, in accordance with constitutional powers vested in him, appointed Joseph Colley as the new Chairman of the Commission. Mr. Colley, who previously served as Vice Chairman, succeeds outgoing Chairman Alieu Momarr Njai. In the same announcement, President Barrow named Cherno Jallow as the new Vice Chairman of the IEC. These appointments mark a key transition in the leadership of the country’s electoral body as it continues its mandate to uphold democratic processes in The Gambia.

Commendation to His Excellency President Adama Barrow

On the Appointment of Hon. Sering Modou Njie as Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Gambians Abroad Your Excellency President Adama Barrow, With profound respect and admiration, I extend my heartfelt commendation to you for your bold and visionary decision to appoint Hon. Sering Modou Njie as The Gambia’s new Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Gambians Abroad. This appointment is not only a step in the right direction—it is a masterstroke of statesmanship. At a time when our nation’s foreign policy must rise to meet the complexities of a changing global landscape, your selection of a leader with both deep-rooted national experience and global perspective is timely, strategic, and exemplary. Hon. Njie brings to this critical office a rare and formidable blend of military discipline, diplomatic tact, and academic excellence. A former senior military officer, his service to our nation has been characterized by integrity, loyalty, and professionalism. From his beginnings as Public Relations Officer of the Gambia Armed Forces in 1998 to his most recent post as Defence Minister, he has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to national service.

What makes this appointment even more compelling is Hon. Njie’s robust background in political science and international relations. With a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and a Master’s in International Relations, he enters this role not only as a patriot, but also as a scholar-practitioner deeply grounded in the principles of diplomacy and international engagement. His exposure to foreign service and global cooperation is precisely the kind of experience required to elevate The Gambia’s diplomatic standing and to deepen our ties with regional and global partners. Your Excellency, this decision sends a powerful message to Gambians and to the international community: that The Gambia is serious about its foreign policy, intentional in its leadership choices, and committed to excellence in public service. With Hon. Njie at the helm of our foreign affairs, we can be confident that the voice of The Gambia will be heard, respected, and well-represented on the global stage. May this appointment mark the beginning of a new chapter of dynamic diplomacy and strategic international cooperation for our beloved country. With deepest respect and patriotic fervor, Yaya Dampha Coordinator NPP Diaspora Sweden

A Groundbreaking Sanyang Deep Port Foundation Laid

President Barrow and NPP Usher in New Era with Groundbreaking of Sanyang Deep Sea Port The Smiling Coast Charts Bold Course Toward Prosperity Under Visionary Leadership The Gambia, affectionately known as the Smiling Coast of Africa, has taken a giant leap toward economic transformation and maritime dominance under the steadfast leadership of His Excellency President Adama Barrow and the progressive National People's Party (NPP). In a move hailed as historic and visionary, President Barrow today laid the foundation stone for the monumental Sanyang Deep Sea Port—a landmark project that cements The Gambia’s place on the global trade map. Thousands of jubilant citizens from all corners of the country gathered in the vibrant coastal town of Sanyang to witness what many are calling the dawn of a new era. Government dignitaries, foreign diplomats, traditional leaders, youth groups, and development partners stood united in praise of a government that delivers on its promises.

The atmosphere was electric, charged with national pride and cultural brilliance. Colorful displays of traditional drumming, spirited dance performances, griots singing praises, and masquerade displays lit up the occasion—symbolizing national unity and the unmatched diversity that defines our beloved homeland. Addressing the nation in his keynote speech, President Barrow declared the project a cornerstone of The Gambia’s economic renaissance. He affirmed that the Sanyang Deep Port will serve as a powerful engine for national development—unlocking massive trade potential, creating thousands of jobs for Gambian youth, boosting government revenue, and easing congestion at the Banjul Port. “This is not just a port; it is a gateway to opportunity and prosperity. It is a symbol of hope for every Gambian, from Kartong to Koina,” the President proclaimed, to thunderous applause.

The NPP government continues to blaze a trail of development across all sectors—education, health, roads, and now maritime infrastructure. The Sanyang Deep Sea Port, a critical component of the Barrow administration’s Vision 2025–2026 development blueprint, reflects the President’s unshakable commitment to modernizing The Gambia and lifting her people to new heights. With this bold step, President Barrow once again proves that under his guidance and the NPP’s visionary governance, The Gambia is not just moving forward—it is rising. The groundbreaking ceremony concluded with the symbolic laying of the foundation stone by the President himself, to chants of gratitude and hope from a grateful nation. The future is bright, and it is President Barrow and the NPP who are lighting the way.

Dr. Mamadou Tangara Resigns as Foreign Minister to Take Up AU Role

State House, Banjul – 3rd July 2025: The Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad, Dr. Mamadou Tangara, has officially tendered his resignation to President Adama Barrow, following his appointment to a senior diplomatic role within the African Union.

President Barrow has accepted Dr. Tangara’s resignation and extended his gratitude for the minister’s years of dedicated service to the nation. He also wished him success in his new responsibilities on the continental stage. Dr. Tangara, who served as Foreign Minister from 2018 to 2025 under the Barrow administration, is set to assume the position of Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission in Mali and the Sahel. He will also serve as Head of the AU’s MISAHEL Office based in Bamako, Mali. Dr. Tangara’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter in The Gambia’s foreign affairs leadership, as he transitions to a crucial role addressing peace, stability, and cooperation within the West African sub-region.

Editorial: Darboe’s Dangerous Rhetoric and the Violence It Emboldens

The events that transpired at the United Democratic Party (UDP) meeting in New Yundum — where a female UDP supporter was assaulted, humiliated, and mobbed by her own party comrades — are not only disgraceful but symptomatic of a deeper rot within the political culture that some leaders continue to nurture.

On that very day, UDP leader Ousainou Darboe delivered a speech extolling women in the UDP for their so-called “fierce resistance” and “courageous fight,” framing the party’s legacy in the language of struggle, aggression, and combat. Instead of championing democratic values like dialogue, unity, and peaceful engagement, Mr. Darboe glorified a history of confrontation, implicitly validating violent behavior as a badge of loyalty.

His remarks, far from empowering women, have emboldened a factional, hostile environment where female militants now feel justified — even celebrated — for attacking their fellow citizens, including women within their own ranks. This is not bravery. This is not political engagement. This is thuggery dressed in yellow. The irony is glaring: while Mr. Darboe romanticized women “tightening their waists” to “rescue the country,” a loyal UDP woman was being dragged, beaten, and publicly shamed — not by her political opponents, but by UDP women at a UDP event, under the watch of UDP leadership.

This culture of glorified resistance and selective victimhood has devolved into something dangerous. One must now ask: is the United Democratic Party a platform for democratic ideals or a breeding ground for political hooliganism? Mr. Darboe cannot continue to bask in the glow of past struggles while turning a blind eye to the violence committed in his name. His silence on the attack is complicity. His praise of past aggression is incitement. We condemn, in the strongest possible terms, the violence committed by UDP women at the New Yundum meeting. And we hold Ousainou Darboe morally accountable for fostering an atmosphere where such acts are not only tolerated but seemingly encouraged. The Gambia deserves better. Our politics must be guided by respect, not retaliation — by principle, not provocation. Leaders who cannot rise above personal cults and partisan brutality are unfit to lead a nation striving for peace and progress.

Zero Tolerance for Corruption as Justice Ministry Staff Face Prosecution

By JarraNews Staff Writer President Adama Barrow has reaffirmed his government's commitment to accountability, declaring that no individual found culpable in commission of inquiry reports or audit findings will be shielded from justice. Sources close to JarraNews reveal that several cases investigated by the police and forwarded to the Attorney General’s Chambers are slated for prosecution, in what is seen as a strong message against corruption and the misuse of public funds. These impending legal actions aim to serve as a deterrent to public officials, civil servants, and others entrusted with managing state resources. In a major development underscoring the administration’s anti-corruption stance, three staff members of the Ministry of Justice have been formally charged in connection with alleged financial misconduct. The accused are Seedy Jammeh, Yusupha M. Cham, and Matarr Sylva—officials at the Intellectual Property Registry Office—who are alleged to have misappropriated over D14 million in public funds between 2018 and 2019. According to the bill of indictment filed by the State Law Office, the trio are facing six charges: conspiracy to defraud, theft, economic crime, forgery, official corruption, and abuse of office. Details of the Charges Count 1: Conspiracy to Defraud – The accused allegedly conspired to defraud the Government of The Gambia by issuing fraudulent receipts and misappropriating fees collected for trademark applications and renewals. Count 2: Theft – It is alleged that the trio dishonestly converted GMD 14,395,620 in public funds to their personal use. Count 3: Economic Crime – The accused reportedly engaged in willful financial misconduct, causing significant economic loss to the state. Count 4: Forgery – They are accused of falsifying IFMIS records to conceal the alleged embezzlement. Count 5: Official Corruption – Cham and Sylva, both public officers, allegedly received unlawful financial benefits by abusing their positions. Count 6: Abuse of Office – The same two defendants are charged with failing to adhere to financial procedures, leading to a substantial loss of public funds. All three defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges when they appeared before the High Court in Banjul. Bail Hearings and Court Rulings During the bail hearing, State Counsel M. Sarr did not oppose bail but requested stringent conditions to ensure the accused remain available for trial. Defence Counsel S. Sonko, representing the first and third accused, argued that his clients had complied with previous police bail terms. He urged the court to maintain similar conditions. Counsel L.J. Darboe, representing the second accused, called for fair and practical bail terms, stressing that bail is a constitutional right and should not be used as a punitive tool.

In his ruling, Justice Jaiteh acknowledged the presumption of innocence under Section 24(3)(a) of the 1997 Constitution and noted the state’s lack of objection to bail. He further emphasized that there was no evidence suggesting the accused posed a flight risk or had attempted to tamper with witnesses. Justice Jaiteh granted bail under the following conditions: Each accused must provide bail in the sum of D16 million, along with one Gambian surety. The surety must be the registered owner of landed property within The Gambia, with a verified value of at least D16 million. A certified estate valuer must appraise the property, and a valuation report submitted to the High Court Registrar within ten days. Original title deeds must be deposited with the court for safekeeping. The accused must attend all court proceedings unless formally excused. Justice Jaiteh warned that any breach of these conditions would result in automatic revocation of bail and the issuance of a bench warrant. This latest development marks a critical test of President Barrow’s pledge to uphold transparency and justice within the public service.