A delegation from the Forward Gambia Foundation, associated with supporters of former Gambian ambassador Essa Bokar Sey, on Friday held talks with the Gambia Federation of the Disabled (GFD) to explore possible areas of collaboration and discuss the inclusion of persons with disabilities in national governance.
The high-level engagement took place on 25 October at the federation’s headquarters in Kanifing and brought together GFD’s executive leadership and representatives from several Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs), including the National Union of Disability Organisations (NUDY), Gambia Organisation of the Visually Impaired (GOVI), Gambia Deaf and Hard of Hearing Association (GADHOH), and the Gambia Amputees Association.
Presiding over the meeting, GFD President Muhammed Krubally said the Federation welcomed dialogue on disability issues but maintained its position as a non-political institution. He stressed that while the GFD does not endorse political parties or candidates, it remains open to partnerships that advance the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities.
Speaking on behalf of the Federation, Acting Executive Director Sainey Camara disclosed that the engagement was formally requested by the Forward Gambia Foundation to present its agenda on disability inclusion. He reminded the delegation that the GFD operates under established protocols, adding that any partnership must respect the federation’s structures and procedures.
Presenting the movement’s position, the Foundation’s Nationwide Coordinator, Halimatou Sowe, said the group is inspired by Ambassador Sey and seeks to build a framework that ensures the participation of persons with disabilities at community, regional and national levels. She noted that Ambassador Sey, who is the parent of a child with a disability, has prioritised disability inclusion as a core part of his national vision.
The delegation underscored the importance of consulting the disability community as part of any national political agenda, stating that true national representation cannot be achieved without the active involvement of persons with disabilities in governance and decision-making processes.
A profile of Ambassador Sey was presented by Ebrima Ceesay, who highlighted the former diplomat’s service as ambassador to France, Russia, Taiwan and the United States. He also confirmed that preparations are underway to register a political party ahead of the 2026 presidential election.
Chairman Krubally cautioned against the use of persons with disabilities for political leverage and warned against what he described as past instances of “token representation” that failed to produce lasting impact. He also emphasised the correct use of inclusive terminology, urging the consistent reference to “Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).”
The meeting concluded with both sides agreeing to maintain dialogue and explore areas of cooperation that promote empowerment and long-term inclusion. They reaffirmed their commitment to transparency, mutual respect and sustained engagement in the national interest.
Report by Madi S. Njie
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