Gambia Emphasizes Integrated Border Management for Enhanced Trade Facilitation

In a significant stride towards improving trade processes, Hon. Yankuba Darboe, the Commissioner General of the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA), underscored the Gambian government's commitment to integrated border management during a recent workshop on coordinated border management. This five-day event, gathering representatives from various sectors including Customs, the Gambia Police Force, and the Immigration Department, aims to consolidate efforts to craft a comprehensive framework for border management. During his keynote address at the workshop hosted at the Senegambia hotel, Darboe articulated the government's recognition of Coordinated Border Management (CBM) as paramount for enhancing trade facilitation. He stated, “Our goal is to improve border efficiency, streamline our trade processes, and foster robust inter-agency collaboration.” Central to these discussions is a Draft Strategy for 2025-2029 developed by the GRA, aimed at modernizing border management and facilitating smoother trade operations. This strategy is part of a broader initiative to bolster The Gambia’s trade ecosystem. Since 2021, The Gambia has collaborated with the World Customs Organization (WCO) through the Accelerate Trade Facilitation Programme, which focuses on implementing the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). Darboe highlighted the areas identified for improvement, such as ongoing border delays and procedural complexities that hinder efficient trade.

Currently, border operations in The Gambia involve 6 to 10 government agencies, which presents significant challenges. Darboe emphasized the importance of CBM reforms in addressing these issues, stating that better coordination would lead to reduced trade costs and stimulate economic growth. Despite the ongoing initiatives, Darboe acknowledged gaps in practical knowledge regarding CBM implementation. He outlined the GRA's requirements for capacity-building, which include standardizing operating procedures across border agencies, harmonizing data for effective exchange, and devising comprehensive risk management strategies. The workshop also featured insights into a draft inter-agency standard operations framework on CBM, developed by a working group representing various border agencies. This framework was crafted through virtual sessions with WCO experts, highlighting the collaborative approach needed to establish a robust border management system. Key elements of the draft framework encompass legal provisions, operational guidelines for border agencies, and protocols for the efficient physical movement of goods through ports. Additionally, it addresses expedited clearance systems for various goods categories, enhancing the overall efficiency of border operations.

In closing, Darboe pointed out that the implementation of capacity-building initiatives within the GRA would lay the foundation for standardized operating procedures at all points of entry in The Gambia. He further reinforced the importance of collaborative efforts among border agencies to facilitate effective trade flow while ensuring proper revenue collection. Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Jim Clarke from the WCO reiterated the critical need for information-sharing between border agencies to ensure seamless trade operations while safeguarding The Gambia’s revenue interests. Their collective efforts signify a proactive approach to developing a modern and integrated border management framework.

Lawyer Melville Roberts Open Letter To Amie Bensouda

Dear Mrs. Amie Bensouda, I pen this letter with a heavy heart, burdened by sorrow yet driven by a profound sense of love and disappointment. It is not easy to address you, a woman I have long admired and respected, whose legacy transcends common admiration. However, the truth compels me to speak, even when it is difficult.

The recent cease and desist letter directed at Kurang has shaken me—not for its legal implications, as you are undoubtedly one of the finest legal minds of our time, but for the emotional weight it carries. It signifies a rift, a silence, an unwillingness to engage in open discourse. Instead of fostering dialogue, it conveys a sense of threat and deterrence.

You have dedicated your life to fighting against injustice, illuminating dark corridors of truth, and giving voice to the voiceless. This course of action—this legal silence cloaked in warnings—wounds deeply. Many, including myself and Kurang, have raised questions regarding the actions of the Commission. These inquiries are not attacks; they are a quest for clarity and understanding, born out of a sincere desire for truth. My love for you remains steadfast. I believe in the greatness that resides within you—a greatness rooted not in the exercise of power but in the pursuit of justice. I implore you not to allow this moment to cast a shadow on your legacy. Do not let the public, who have cherished your name, perceive you as someone who would silence uncomfortable truths. I do not believe you personally sold Jammeh’s assets. As a lawyer, I understand the structure, limitations, and responsibilities involved. While you served as lead counsel, the final decisions rested with a broader collective. However, leadership also encompasses how one responds to challenges. The nation deserves clarity and a robust rebuttal to the concerns raised. Unfortunately, the threat of legal action only stirs suspicion and obscures the transparency you have always championed. We can disagree while still holding each other in mutual respect. I can challenge certain actions yet honor your name. However, I cannot support a narrative that stifles legitimate dissent through intimidation. That is not who you are. You have stood before Lady Justice with grace and dignity, inspiring generations to see justice as a calling rather than merely a profession. As someone who cares deeply for you, I want you to know that you are cherished. After Kurang publicly insulted me for defending you, I stood tall, advocating for him when he faced arrest and detention. I chose to rise above personal attacks. I refuse to be diminished by baseless claims; I remain steadfast in my truth. I will not stand idle as your name is tarnished, nor will I support an environment where dissent is quashed by the threat of lawsuits. Please, rise above this situation, not out of obligation to Kurang or to me, but in honor of the values you have so ardently defended throughout your life. Demonstrate to the world that your voice confronts truth, embraces it, and responds with clarity and courage. With unwavering respect and affection, Melville Robertson Roberts, Esq. Derbyshire, England

Lawyer Files D144 Million Defamation Claim Against Kurang

Gambian Legal Firm Issues Cease and Desist Regarding D144 Million Defamation Claim Antouman A.B. Gaye & Co., a distinguished legal firm in The Gambia, has formally issued a cease and desist letter on behalf of their client, Mrs. Amie N.D. Bensouda, targeting Alagi Mamadi Kurang, the former Secretary of the Janneh Commission, over allegations of defamation. The legal notice, dated May 16, 2025, demands that Kurang immediately cease making damaging assertions regarding Bensouda's purported involvement in the sale or acquisition of assets seized from former President Yahya Jammeh.

The correspondence states that Kurang has undertaken a seven-year campaign characterized by defamatory posts on social media and in media interviews, employing derogatory language and false claims intended to undermine Bensouda’s reputation. The letter calls for Kurang to retract all defamatory statements and provide a full and public apology. Should Kurang fail to comply within seven days, the legal firm will pursue further action, including a lawsuit seeking D144 million (approximately $2 million) in damages.

Lawyer Melville Roberts Open Letter To President Barrow

By Lawyer Melville Roberts

A Plea for Integrity: Why The Gambia Should Withdraw Its Endorsement of Ba Tambadou for the ICJ Dear Mr. President, esteemed Gambians, In the life of a nation, there are pivotal moments when silence can amount to complicity, and the act of speaking out, even at the risk of misunderstanding, becomes essential for the integrity of our nation, our conscience, and our historical narrative. Today is one of those critical moments.

I write to you not out of animosity, nor with any political agenda, but from a place of profound sorrow and unwavering conviction, fueled by my deep love for this country. I understand all too well the weight of justice when it is manipulated, misrepresented, or neglected because I have experienced it firsthand. The Gambian government’s decision to endorse Mr. Abubacarr Tambadou for a position as judge at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) resonates deeply with our national journey. While it may appear admirable to see one of our own elevated within the ranks of global justice, we must confront a troubling reality that calls for serious reflection. We must not be deceived by titles or accolades. True character is revealed not by the allure of global platforms but by the positive impact made at home. In the past, Ba Tambadou ignited hope. As the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, he stood as a symbol of renewal for a nation emerging from two decades of dictatorship, holding the aspirations of victims in his hands. He was positioned to honor our shared pain with fairness, truth, and humility. Yet, Mr. President, those hopes have been dashed.

To many, Ba Tambadou will not be remembered as a champion for justice but as a gatekeeper, determining who received justice, when, and under what circumstances. His tenure was marred by selective prosecutions and inconsistencies in upholding the spirit of the Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparations Commission (TRRC), revealing a disheartening trend of protecting the powerful while relegating victims to the shadows. I urge you to consider the families still searching for justice, the survivors who witnessed perpetrators evade accountability, and the countless individuals who have endured suffering only to be told that some lives are worth more than others when it comes to justice. Beyond the courtroom and commissions, a more profound issue remains: the management of former President Yahya Jammeh’s assets. Under Ba Tambadou’s watch, the sale and disposal of these properties—ill-gotten gains from a suffering nation—have raised serious concerns regarding transparency and ethical conduct. Accusations of selective auctions, undervalued asset sales, and a lack of clear revenue channels cannot be ignored. Properties that belonged to the people of The Gambia have been sold off, but to whom and at what price? Why has there not been a clear public account of the recovered wealth, and whether it was truly returned? Additionally, troubling reports concerning the accuracy of translated legal documents persist. Allegations of misrepresentation or selective interpretation have clouded proceedings that should have been unassailable. Such issues do not represent minor grievances; they strike at the very foundation of justice, suggesting manipulation rather than fairness. How can we expect an individual characterized by such controversies, however eloquent, to adjudicate matters involving genocide, war crimes, and global accountability? The ICJ is not merely a trophy to reward political affiliation or global praise; it stands as the last resort for the world’s gravest injustices. It demands unwavering integrity, independence, and a transparent history that can endure global scrutiny. Mr. President, this decision transcends politics. It defines who we are as a people. It will determine whether the victims of Jammeh’s regime perceive justice as a hollow performance or a genuine truth. It will signal whether The Gambia, the smallest country on the African mainland, can continue to be a beacon of moral courage—not just in words but in deeds.

Endorsing Ba Tambadou is not a neutral act; it implicitly suggests that his actions in The Gambia were acceptable. It tells the victims of Yahya Jammeh’s regime that the individual who oversaw their initial quest for justice, despite falling short, is now fit to pass judgment on global atrocities. That message is deeply flawed and profoundly damaging...See More

Editorial: They All Failed The President in their Duties

As we reflect upon the complex legal landscape of our nation, it is crucial to confront uncomfortable truths about our past. The emergence of youth groGambians Against Loathed Assets (GALA) raises important questions regarding their true motives and agendas. It has become evident that GALA has deviated from its original mission for accountability, accepting the role of seeking political favor for its financiers. Their recent actions, which include organizing unlawful protests, threaten to destabilize our country rather than promote the well-being of the Gambian people.

The role of former Attorney General Baa Tambidu in this unfolding saga deserves particular scrutiny. Rather than facing challenges, Tambidu misused his office to mislead the public and mismanage the situation surrounding the seized assets. It has become apparent that he engaged in the wrongful sale of these assets at giveaway prices, raising serious concerns about corruption and malpractice during his tenure. The commission tasked with investigating the financial dealings of former President Yahya Jammeh operated under Section 200 of the Gambian Constitution, with the explicit mandate to investigate and report on illicit financial activities without the authority to dispose of assets. However, the misuse of power by individuals like Tambidu undermined this mandate and jeopardized the integrity of the commission's work. Attempts to unfreeze these assets for sale, driven by misguided motives, were ultimately rejected by the courts, reinforcing the notion that such actions exceeded legal authority.

The involvement of key individuals within this framework raises further concerns about governance, transparency, and accountability within our legal institutions. Notable among these figures is Justice Jaiteh, whose intervention in the matter fell outside of his jurisdiction and raises questions about the independence of the judiciary. Moreover, the role of the Minister of Justice, as a political appointee and principal legal advisor to the President, is critical. Justice Dawda Jallow’s failure to address these irregularities and his apparent complicity in these transactions undermine the integrity of his office and call for his honorable resignation due to incompetence. President Adama Barrow is currently awaiting the findings of the National Assembly Select Committee investigating the alleged sales of properties belonging to Yahya Jammeh. The President has committed to ensuring that anyone found culpable will face accountability. It is imperative for every Gambian to access the report when it is released, demonstrating our collective expectation that the President will act decisively based on the findings. We recognize President Barrow as a democratic leader, steadfast in his commitment to due process and accountability, and it is disingenuous to suggest otherwise.

In addition, we must address the misguided calls from figures such as Neneh Freda Gomez and her fellow immature attention seekers who urge our youth to launch a nationwide protest akin to the Arab Spring with the aim of removing President Barrow from power. These aspirations are disconnected from the current realities of our governance and stand to undermine the essential work the governmentis doing towards democratic reform.

The hypocrisy in these calls is glaring. Neneh Freda Gomez and her allies failed to oppose the tyrannical regime of Yahya Jammeh while it brutally suppressed dissent, imprisoned citizens, and forced many into exile. In fact Neneh and her family were supporting Yahya Jammeh. Their past alliances with a despot starkly contrast with their current positions of opposition. Neneh, in particular, should reflect on her prior actions and cease her duplicity. In conclusion, we must acknowledge that the failures of the commissioners, the Attorney General, and the Minister of Justice extend beyond individual missteps; they jeopardize the stability and integrity of our country. Accountability must be pursued; those responsible should be held answerable for their actions. It is time for The Gambia to embrace transparency and uphold the rule of law for the benefit of all citizens.

Darboe’s Opposition to the Parliamentary Inquiry Is Challenge To Transparency ?

By Alagi Yorro Jallow

Darboe’s Opposition to the Parliamentary Inquiry: A Challenge to Transparency? Is This About Partisan Interests or Governance Integrity. Transparency Must Prevail Over Political Calculations In a stunning turn of events, UDP Leader Ousainou Darboe has publicly urged President Barrow to block the parliamentary inquiry into the sale of Yahya Jammeh’s assets, citing partisan interests. His statement, delivered in Mandinka and now circulating widely, raises serious concerns about the future of accountability in The Gambia. For years, Gambians have demanded full transparency regarding the disposal of Jammeh’s confiscated wealth, suspecting irregularities, insider dealings, and financial mismanagement.

The establishment of a Parliamentary Select Committee was seen as a critical step toward uncovering the truth. Yet, Darboe’s opposition to this investigation raises fundamental questions—is this about protecting political allies, or does he genuinely believe the inquiry is flawed? Blocking an investigation into potential financial misconduct risks undermining public trust and setting a dangerous precedent. If transparency is negotiable based on political convenience, then what does that mean for future accountability efforts? If Darboe is indeed opposing the inquiry, it raises critical questions about his motivations. Is his concern genuinely about partisan interests, or does he believe the inquiry lacks fairness and transparency? Given the historical significance of Jammeh’s asset disposals, blocking an investigation could The sale and disposal of former President Yahya Jammeh’s assets have long been shrouded in controversy, raising serious concerns about transparency, accountability, and potential insider dealings. The establishment of a Parliamentary Select Committee to investigate these transactions was widely seen as a necessary step toward financial justice. Yet, reports suggest that UDP Leader Ousainou Darboe has urged President Barrow to block the inquiry, citing partisan interests. If true, this stance demands scrutiny—why would a leader of one of The Gambia’s largest opposition parties seek to halt an investigation into potential financial mismanagement? Is this about partisan interests or governance integrity? Darboe’s opposition raises two possible interpretations? A strategic political move—If UDP believes the inquiry is politically motivated, Darboe may view it as an attempt to target specific individuals or factions rather than pursue genuine accountability. Concerns over procedural fairness—If the inquiry lacks clear oversight mechanisms, Darboe may fear it will be used selectively rather than conducted with full transparency. However, blocking an inquiry entirely rather than advocating for fairer investigative processes risks undermining public trust. Gambians deserve full disclosure, and any attempt to halt scrutiny could be perceived as shielding potential wrongdoing. Fatoumatta: If Darboe actively discourages the inquiry, he risks alienating voters who demand accountability. The Gambian people have consistently called for transparency, particularly regarding Jammeh’s financial dealings. Any leader who stands in the way of such investigations may face public backlash, as citizens increasingly demand clean governance and institutional integrity.

Furthermore, blocking an inquiry could set a dangerous precedent, signaling that financial investigations can be obstructed based on political convenience. This would weaken The Gambia’s democratic institutions, making future accountability efforts more difficult to enforce. Fatoumatta: Regardless of political affiliations, accountability should never be negotiable. If Darboe has concerns about the inquiry’s fairness, he should advocate for stronger oversight and procedural integrity, rather than calling for its outright dismissal. The Gambian people deserve answers—not political maneuvering. If the inquiry is conducted with full transparency, it will serve as a crucial step toward restoring public trust in governance. Any attempt to block or weaken this process must be met with firm resistance from civil society and the electorate. Fatoumatta: The Gambian people deserve unfiltered truth, not political maneuvering. The parliamentary inquiry into the sale of Yahya Jammeh’s assets is not about partisan interests—it is about accountability, integrity, and restoring public trust in governance. If political leaders begin cherry-picking which investigations should proceed based on political convenience, The Gambia risks slipping into a dangerous precedent where transparency is conditional, rather than fundamental. Darboe’s opposition to the inquiry may raise strategic concerns, but blocking investigations into financial mismanagement only weakens democratic institutions. Leaders must advocate for fairness, not prevent scrutiny altogether. If transparency is indeed a priority, then allowing the inquiry to proceed without obstruction is the only path forward. Fatoumatta: In governance, accountability is non-negotiable. Gambians must reject attempts to silence investigations, ensuring that truth is never compromised for political expediency. https://www.facebook.com/reel/706452825098317

Legal Expert Melvile Robertson Sends Stern Warnings To GALA

Prominent Gambian lawyer Melvile Robertson has delivered a proactive message to the Gambia Association for Legal Accountability (GALA), emphasizing the importance of maintaining public trust as the organization pursues its advocacy efforts. In a public statement, Lawyer Robertson cautioned GALA against overreaching in its initiatives, stating, “GALA must exercise caution to avoid becoming overly dominant and risking the support and solidarity of the public. Without the backing of the majority of citizens, GALA risks becoming irrelevant. It is crucial to operate within the boundaries of the law; not even the executive branch can dictate the composition of the National Assembly Select Committee.” He continued, stressing the importance of engagement and impact: “We stand behind you, but ensure that your visibility does not detract from your core essence. Avoid excessive press releases and statements. Maintain focus and vigilance so that when you do issue a statement or hold a press conference, it resonates powerfully and evokes significant national attention.”

Lawyer Robertson further advised GALA to remain vigilant against political exploitation: “Do not permit anyone to use your efforts for political gain. I urge GALA to carefully select its members and advisers. If the public perceives you as having personal or political ambitions that diverge from your foundational mission, you risk losing the significant support of the masses. Without this backing, your influence will wane.” He concluded with a note of encouragement, expressing his continued support: “In the meantime, I am cheering for all of you—stay focused.” Robertson's message has garnered widespread attention within civil society, reflecting a growing consensus among legal and civic leaders about the need for strategic discipline, public accountability, and non-partisanship in advocacy efforts.

Special Committee to Investigate Sale of Former President Jammeh’s Assets Constituted

In a move reflecting its oversight responsibility and commitment to transparency, the National Assembly of The Gambia has established a Special Select Committee tasked with investigating the sale and disposal of assets formerly belonging to ex-President Yahya A.J.J. Jammeh. The assets in question were identified by the Commission of Inquiry into the Financial Activities of Public Bodies, Enterprises, and Offices under the former president, more commonly known as the Janneh Commission. The Commission's findings led to the forfeiture of several properties and businesses to the state. However, questions remain about the process through which these assets were disposed of and whether the sales were conducted in a lawful and transparent manner. To address these concerns, the Assembly constituted the Committee during its First Extraordinary Session of the 2025 Legislative Year, held from 14th to 15th May 2025. The motion for its establishment was tabled by Hon. Billay G. Tunkara, Member of the Committee of Selection. The seven-member Committee is composed as follows: 1. Hon. Abdoulie Ceesay – Chairperson 2. Hon. Madi MK Ceesay – Vice Chairperson 3. Hon. Kebba Lang Fofana – Member 4. Hon. Alhagie Mbow – Member 5. Hon. Omar Jammeh – Member 6. Hon. Suwaibou Touray – Member 7. Hon. Sherif Sarr – Member The Committee’s mandate is clear and far-reaching. Over the course of the next 120 days, members will investigate the full list of disposed assets, the legality and transparency of the processes involved, the identities of purchasers, and the management of proceeds from the sales. They are empowered to summon witnesses, review official records, and consult with technical experts as needed. The formation of this Special Select Committee is backed by Section 109(2) of the 1997 Constitution of the Republic of The Gambia and Order 95(5) of the National Assembly’s Standing Orders. These provisions enable the Assembly to conduct independent scrutiny of executive actions, reinforcing accountability and good governance.

Gambia Navy Patrol Intercepted Over 100 illegal migrants

In a significant operation, the Gambia Navy Patrol vessel HSB SEADOG intercepted and arrested a boat suspected of transporting illegal migrants during a routine patrol in the early hours of Thursday, May 15, 2025.

The wooden vessel, carrying 114 individuals—including two minors—was escorted to the Naval Base in Banjul for processing before being handed over to representatives from the Gambia Immigration Department. Initial investigations revealed that the boat had departed from Bunyadu in The Gambia on Monday, May 12, 2025, and had made its way to Niwadibu in the Republic of Mauritania. Unfortunately, the crew lost their way and ended up in Gambian waters.

Among the passengers were 97 men and 17 women, many of whom appeared exhausted and in distress. Medical personnel from the Gambia Armed Forces were on hand at the Naval Base to attend to those in need of urgent care. Lieutenant Commander Fara Jobe, commanding officer of the Naval Base, oversaw the handover process to immigration officials.

Editor’s Note: It is important to condemn the perilous practice of making the dangerous journey to Europe by sea. Such treks expose vulnerable individuals to significant risks, including loss of life and exploitation. As a society, we must seek safer solutions and address the root causes of migration rather than turning a blind eye to these tragic circumstances.

CDS Cham Strengthening Civil Military Relationship In Ker Ali

On May 13, 2025, Lieutenant General Mamat O.A. Cham, the Chief of Defense Staff (CDS) of the Gambia Armed Forces, continued his nationwide tour with a pivotal visit to a military post along the Gambia-Senegal border.

During this visit, General Cham engaged directly with troops stationed at the border, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between Gambian and Senegalese security forces. His message was supported by several key stakeholders, including Ousainou Charreh, Deputy Border Post Manager, and Commissioner Basiru Njie from Senegal, who praised the robust bilateral partnership aimed at maintaining regional peace and stability.

In his address, General Cham highlighted the dual role of the Gambia Armed Forces in defense and community development, stressing the significance of military initiatives, such as the military credit union, for the welfare of personnel. He encouraged local residents to actively support the work of security agencies, stating, “The security of our nation depends not only on our armed forces but also on the vigilance and cooperation of our communities. Together, we can ensure a safer Gambia and a stronger partnership with our neighbours.”

This visit underscored The Gambia’s commitment to proactive regional security and meaningful community engagement as foundational elements for lasting peace in the border areas, marking a significant step towards enhanced cooperation in safeguarding the nation's integrity.

Gambia Armed Forces Personnel Injured in Road Traffic Accident

The Gambia Armed Forces deeply regret to inform the public that eight members of the 3 Infantry Battalion were involved in a road traffic accident. The incident took place on Sunday, 11th May 2025, between 3:00 AM and 4:00 AM, while the troops were returning from a joint security patrol between Badari and Kundam. The injured personnel have been transported to Bansang Hospital for medical treatment. The Chief of Defence Staff expresses his thoughts and prayers for the swift recovery of the injured. The Military Police are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident.

Opinion: Against Misguided Praise for Ousainou Darboe

By Balang Sisay

A Call to Accountability: Standing Firm It is both disheartening and infuriating to witness yet another attempt to mislead the Gambian populace, this time by an 80-year-old figure who seems unable to discern the line between morality and the legal consequences of his actions. The recent post by Lamin Sabally, which vainly glorifies Ousainou Darboe’s appearance on Menbe Kereng, is not only misguided but also an outright insult to the intelligence of the Gambian people. For Lamin Sabally, it is a shame to see you perpetually writing such nonsense about the UDP and its leader. You now have the audacity to express your opinions, yet when Yahya Jammeh was in power, you were among the journalists who melted down as if you never existed. You should be ashamed to raise your head. Ousainou Darboe has long been ensnared by the very consequences of his own actions—decisions rooted in self-interest, political deception, and manipulation that have marred his career. Rather than owning up to his past missteps, he resorts to twisting the narrative, a tactic unbecoming of any leader worthy of respect. While it’s true that Gambians are a forgiving people, we are not naive. We refuse to overlook a man who has repeatedly demonstrated untrustworthiness. His role in the disintegration of the coalition, the exclusion of principled leaders like Halifa Sallah and Seedia Jatta from President Barrow’s cabinet, and his involvement in the dubious Banjul 9 ambassadorial appointments are all matters we cannot forget. Now, he stands on a national platform, attempting to rewrite history and evade accountability. We must not let this happen. Gambians deserve the truth, not a sanitized version of events shaped by a politician desperately clinging to his legacy. To the producers and host of Menbe Kereng, a program that commands respect nationwide, I implore you to remain impartial. Ask the tough questions that hold leaders accountable. Do not allow Darboe to undermine our collective memory or intelligence with empty platitudes. Gambians are vigilant. We are engaged, and we demand integrity from those who seek to lead us. The time for superficial narratives and evasive rhetoric is over—let us stand firm in our pursuit of accountability and transparency. The future of our nation depends on it.

Opinion: The Forces Undermining Our Democracy

By Balang Sisay

In a recent political showdown, Mamadi Kurang faced a significant defeat at the hands of seasoned politician Hon. Halifa Sallah. Kurang, relying on his limited educational background and bravado, underestimated Sallah's decades of experience and insight, leading to a miscalculation that exposed his shortcomings. Meanwhile, Baboucarr Keita, who gained fleeting fame from a highly publicized divorce, seems out of touch with the current sentiments of the Gambian people. Citizens have moved on from personal drama and are now dedicated to fostering a stable, progressive nation. Keita's recent actions appear driven by desperation, revealing a lack of genuine political substance and an opportunistic approach that uses public sentiment for his own gain.

A troubling trend is emerging among certain political actors, characterized by naïveté and a shallow understanding of the nation's political landscape. Their inexperience and misplaced trust make them vulnerable to being manipulated by individuals with more dangerous agendas. Perhaps they should take a lesson from figures like Killa Ace and Alieu Bah—not for their political stances, but to grasp the critical balance between activism and chaos. After a series of public embarrassments, these individuals attempted to stage a comeback through provocative actions that undermine our democracy and the rule of law. Citizens cannot disregard established rules and expect to be rewarded.

What transpired in our country recently was not a demonstration; it was a blatant violation of our laws. We cannot afford to tolerate such lawlessness, which threatens our national stability. I recall a time when we believed anything was possible, only to see silence from those who once critiqued our actions for not adhering to due process. While the right to peaceful assembly is enshrined in The Gambia's 1997 Constitution, it must be exercised responsibly, without infringing on the rights and safety of others. Crossing this line transforms protected expression into unlawful disruption. This constitutional right is not only legal; it is also moral and cultural. However, we must not conflate disorder with freedom. Since taking office, President Adama Barrow has made significant strides in enlarging democratic space, displaying resilience in the face of harsh criticism toward his government and family. Observing recent processions across the Greater Banjul Area reveals a contrast: small factions reveling in unauthorized protests while the broader population remains committed to lawful governance. Some distant critics, motivated by personal grievances against the Barrow administration regarding past injustices, are using figures like Mayor Rohey Lowe for their own agendas, despite her lack of awareness of their political backgrounds. Our collective memory serves as a reminder of the past. President Barrow is emerging as a steady figure during this tumultuous time, calmly guiding the nation while upholding the rule of law. The international community is observing closely, and we seem poised to overcome yet another hurdle in our journey toward democracy. Bravo, President Barrow! Listening to influential voices like Papa Njie Girigara provides renewed hope for our national unity. I join Pa Njie in urging the Barrow government to review the situation of those recently detained and allow history to render its judgment. I remain optimistic that such measures will be taken. May Allah protect us from discord and mischief. Ba Lang!