Rebuttal to APRC's Bass Sonko's Criticism of President Adama Barr

Fellow Gambians, It is imperative to address the recent unwarranted remarks made by Bass Sonko concerning the leadership of our esteemed President Adama Barrow and the National People's Party (NPP). Mr. Sonko, who spent over two decades supporting the oppressive regime of former President Yahya Jammeh, seems to have conveniently forgotten the atrocities, nepotism, tribalism, regionalism and official corruption that characterized those dark years in our country’s history. During his time supporting Jammeh, Bass Sonko turned a blind eye to the rampant injustices that plagued The Gambia. As highlighted in Amnesty International’s report of 2010, Jammeh's regime was marked by systematic fear, brutality, and the outright murder of innocent citizens. Official corruption was rampant, with Jammeh freely seizing state resources, engaging in land grabbing, and turning public institutions into personal profit centers—all without accountability. It is bewildering that Mr. Sonko can now criticize President Barrow for a nationally approved salary of 500,000 dalasis while he failed to denounce Jammeh’s unrestricted access to government accounts. Jammeh could withdraw funds at will, utilizing public resources for his personal gain while our citizens suffered in silence. Where was the outrage then? Mr. Sonko's selective memory is a testament to his unwillingness to confront the uncomfortable truths about his past allegiances. Moreover, Sonko's baseless claims of corruption directed at President Barrow lack any substantial evidence. The NPP government stands united in its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the pursuit of justice, particularly for the victims of the Jammeh regime. The wheels of justice are in motion, and it is only a matter of time before Yahya Jammeh and his henchmen face trial for the crimes they committed against our people. It is evident that Mr. Sonko's attacks stem from a place of desperation and fear—fear that the NPP government is diligently working toward accountability and reconciliation for the horrors of our past. It is significant to note that the road to justice for all affected by Jammeh’s dictatorship is being paved under President Barrow's leadership. As we look forward to the 2026 elections, let us remember the progress we have made under President Adama Barrow. His administration has fostered unprecedented development and peace in our nation. The sky is indeed the limit, and together, we will continue to build a Gambia that is inclusive, prosperous, and just. So, let us not be swayed by the rhetoric of those who once supported tyranny. Instead, let us unite behind the vision of a brighter future that President Barrow is tirelessly working to achieve for all Gambians. In solidarity and hope for a better Gambia, Yaya Dampha Coordinator LRR NPP Diaspora

I Will Resign If...... IGP Seedy M Touray

The Inspector General of Police Seedy Muctar Touray reassures the public of commitment and willingness of the police force in protecting their lifes and properties. The police boss shows the readiness of the police in curbing crime and crime related issues thereby making the Gambia a safer place to live.

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Seedy Muktar Touray, in today’s press conference addressing recent security concerns, including the alleged robberies at Access Bank and ElHella shop in Banjul, emphasized the GPF’s unwavering commitment to maintaining the country’s security.

In his statement, he said: “The Gambia Police Force has been maligned, ridiculed, and sent to tatters. Many things have been said about us.

We accept this in good faith, and we’re not apportioning blame to anyone, because that’s what we signed up for. If we are unable to protect the lives and property of this nation, let me be on record – I, Seedy Muktar Touray, will be the first to tender my resignation to the executive, saying I have failed in my duties and am relieving myself of my responsibilities."

Update On The Arrested Armed Robbers

Abdoulie Jallow was among the armed robbers arrested by the police yesterday. He was found at the Serrekunda Villa Guest House with a prost*tute, who was also taken into custody. Abdoulie was in Barra. When he suspected that the police were searching for him, he quickly took a boat to Banjul and later checked into the Serrekunda Villa.

Considered the most skilled member of the gang, Abdoulie was also the mastermind behind some of their operations. He purchased the pist*ls in Senegal, strapping them to his body to cross the Amdalai border undetected. Before the gang attacked El Hella in Banjul, Abdoulie first surveyed the area. Once he was confident that the operation could proceed, he alerted his accomplices.

The other gang members, Ansumana Jarju and Ivorian national Ousainou Jobarteh, met at Mile 2 Prison, where they became close friends. After their release, they recruited Abdoulie and others, forming a gang that carried out multiple armed robberies. Ousainou is married to a Gambian woman, Tida Nyang. She was also arrested yesterday and is currently assisting the police with their investigation.

Police arrested Armed Robbers As INVESTIGATION Continues

POLICE INVESTIGATE ALLEGED ARMED ROBBERY IN BANJUL AND PROVIDE UPDATE ON ACCESS BANK CASE DATE: February 9, 2025 The Gambia Police Force has made significant progress in its investigation into a recent armed robbery in Banjul, leading to the arrests of the suspects and ongoing efforts to bring all perpetrators to justice.

A case of armed robbery was reported at the Banjul Police Station involving an attack on El Hella Shop, located on Hegan Street, Banjul, at approximately 09:08 hrs. The complainant, Muhammed Seedy Hydra of Brikama, stated that he had traveled to Banjul with D1,245,000.00 and 1,650,000.00 CFA to purchase goods. Upon arrival, he noticed a BMW, ash in color, with no number plate, parked opposite the shop. Moments after entering, two armed individuals stormed the shop, held him at gunpoint, and forcefully took the cash before fleeing the scene. Following the robbery, the suspects abandoned the vehicle in Banjul and used a commercial vehicle to escape to Sting Corner, where they divided the stolen money. Through intensive investigations, police arrested the suspects. Ousainou Jobarteh, an Ivorian national residing in Busumbala, was apprehended in the early morning of Sunday, February 9, 2025. Officers recovered D70,250 and 465,000 CFA from him. During interrogation, he admitted to conspiring with Abdoulie Jallow, a 24-year-old resident of Barra, and used his BMW with registration number BJL 4871B to execute the operation. He further disclosed that Amadou Wurry Jallow, a mechanic, was instructed to drive the vehicle out of Banjul for maintenance and repainting to conceal evidence. The vehicle was later identified and intercepted at Bond Road at about 21:00 hrs. Later that day, police arrested Abdoulie Jallow along with his girlfriend, Bella James, at Serekunda Villa around 16:30 GMT. During the search, officers recovered D198,000 from Jallow. Additionally, his Wave account contained D24,000, but no CFA currency was recovered from him. After the operation, the stolen money was divided among the suspects. Ousainou Jobarteh admitted to entrusting D70,250 and 465,000 CFA to his wife, Tida Nyang, while giving her an additional D3,000 for personal use. He further revealed that he handed over D304,000 to Odile Secka, a female resident of Banjul, bringing the total money entrusted to third parties to D377,250 and 465,000 CFA.

In a separate case, authorities in Guinea-Bissau have arrested Ansu Jarju, a Gambian national, in connection with the Access Bank robbery in Brusubi. The suspect has been handed over to The Gambia Police Force through security bilateral, to ensure his swift extradition and prosecution. Police have recovered firearms and other incriminating evidence, further strengthening the case against the arrested individuals. Investigators are working to determine whether the suspects are linked to other armed robberies in the country. The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. The Gambia Police Force commends its officers for their swift and decisive action and reassures the public of its commitment to maintaining law and order.

Please note that this is an ongoing investigation, further updates on progress of the investigation will be provided as and when available.

President Barrow's Statement At The Legal Year

My Lord, the Honourable Chief Justice of The Gambia, Justices of the Superior and Lower Courts, Honourable Speaker and Members of the National Assembly, The Honourable Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Honourable Cabinet Ministers, Members of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps, Learned Magistrates and Cadis, Members of the Judicial Service Commission and the General Legal Council, President of The Gambia Bar Association and Members of the Bar, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, I am deeply honoured to preside over the official opening of the 2025 Legal Year. This is an event I annually look forward to with keenness, in view of the unique position the Justice and Judiciary system holds in our Democracy. The occasion reaffirms, once again, our collective commitment to transforming The Gambia into an enviable democratic nation, championing justice, the rule of law, and good governance. For the Executive, our ambition is not only to improve the dispensation of justice in the country, but also to position The Gambia among the best justice systems in the world. The ongoing comprehensive reforms and strategic investments to strengthen our justice sector are practically fuelled by this vision. In view of the giant steps taken in this regard, I extend hearty congratulations to the Judiciary of The Gambia, ably led by the Lord Chief Justice, Honourable Hassan B. Jallow. Your collective tireless efforts to enhance access to justice and efficiency are widely acknowledged and appreciated. The recent introduction, for instance, of advanced court reporting tools and software in the courts is a monumental step towards speedy and impartial access to justice for all. Adopting new state-of-the-art technology has modernised our justice system, leading to more efficient and faster delivery of justice. This visionary approach will undoubtedly strengthen public confidence in our courts. I also commend the Judiciary’s initiatives to empower district tribunals through training and capacity building, convening magistrates to establish a collective path towards quicker access to justice, as well as educating communities on legal matters. These initiatives are making a substantial difference, particularly for those in the rural area. My government will remain resolute in its mission to promote and uphold good governance, the rule of law, and democracy. By maintaining a clear separation of powers, we have significantly improved the independence of the Judiciary, thereby restoring public confidence in our legal institutions. The establishment of additional courts and the appointment of highly qualified judges are concrete steps prompted by our resolute commitment to delivering justice impartially and swiftly. My Lords, My Ladies, Your Excellencies, Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, Much progress has been made on the transitional justice agenda, moving from policy formulation to meaningful implementation. Following the release of the White Paper in 2022, my government set in motion mechanisms to ensure justice for victims and accountability for perpetrators of human rights violations. The decision to establish a Special Prosecutor’s Office and a Special Tribunal underscores our determination to address past injustices with transparency and integrity. These efforts are essential to rebuilding trust and fostering a reconciled and united nation. Along these lines, the recent approval by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Authority of Heads of State and Government to establish the Special Tribunal is another remarkable achievement. The Tribunal will investigate and prosecute gross human rights violations and international crimes committed during the previous regime, running from July 1994 through to January 2017. This decision is to make sure that there is justice for the victims and survivors of the human rights abuses committed during that period. It is meant to send a strong message that impunity will not be condoned on our shores. By addressing these grave violations, the tribunal will contribute to restoring trust in public institutions and reinforcing the rule of law in the country. Importantly too, this step aligns with The Gambia's broader transitional justice process, which seeks to redress past injustices, promote societal healing, and foster long-term peace. The tribunal will also be an essential part of my government's efforts to entrench accountability, justice, and reconciliation, address individual and collective grievances, and contribute to a just and democratic environment for all. For us, transparency and accountability will continue to remain indispensable pillars of good governance. The establishment of the Anti-Corruption Commission illustrates our resolve to combat corruption in all its forms. The Commission will promote integrity within public institutions and reinforce public trust in our governance architecture. By holding individuals accountable and fostering a culture of transparency, we are taking decisive steps to strengthen the rule of law and ensuring that public resources are managed responsibly for the benefit of all Gambians. The ongoing security sector reform remains another priority, and we are proud of the progress made in aligning our security services with the principles of the rule of law and human rights. Initiatives, such as enhanced prison conditions, vocational training for inmates, and awareness campaigns on fair trial rights, reflect our comprehensive approach to justice and rehabilitation. These efforts are aimed at reducing repeat offenders and contributing to a safer and more harmonious society. My Lords, My Ladies, Excellencies, Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, We acknowledge the crucial role that international partners, including ECOWAS and our development partners, play by supporting these reforms. Their collaboration with us is helping to maintain a just democratic society with a justice system that reflects our shared values. Our vision for The Gambia is bold but achievable. We are laying the groundwork for a justice system that meets global standards. Achieving this vision requires the collective efforts of all stakeholders, and I am convinced that, working together, we will succeed. It is indeed feasible to transform our justice system into a model of excellence to inspire other nations and ascertain that justice, equality, and fairness prevail for generations to come. Ladies and Gentlemen, Our successes would not have been possible without the Judiciary’s unwavering dedication to executing their constitutional mandate in a fair and just manner. The lessons of the past remind us of the essence of these principles. At present, we can proudly claim that our justice system is stronger, fairer, and more accessible than ever, although our work is far from done. We must continue to build a dignified justice system distinguished by the values of fairness, equality, and integrity. Again, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Judiciary, under the exemplary leadership of the Honourable Chief Justice, for your unwavering commitment to justice and service to the nation. The achievements of our justice system affirm your hard work and the collaborative spirit of all the actors in the sector, such as the Gambia Bar Association, the National Human Rights Commission, the Ombudsman and, of course, the leadership provided by the Ministry of Justice. Let us remain united in our pursuit of a brighter and more just future for our beloved nation. While wishing you a very successful year, I declare the 2025 Legal Year officially open. Thank you for your attention. Source: State House of The Gambia

A Necessary Response to Bakary Bunja Darboe's Press Release

Dear Gambian Citizens, In response to the recent press release issued by GFA Bakary Bunja Darboe's party, it is essential to shed light on the historical context and the realities facing our nation today. It is strikingly clear that those who once held power must not deflect their past mistakes onto the current government. Bakary Bunja Darboe, as Vice President under the first Republic, served during a time marked by nepotism, favoritism, and rampant corruption. His tenure was characterized by a lack of foresight in laying a foundation for the Gambia to realize its potential as the "Singapore of Africa." It is crucial to remember that no credible citizen can justifiably blame President Adama Barrow for the erratic outburst and unfounded comments made by Yahya Jammeh from the shadows of exile. Let's not overlook the fact that political dynamics have changed substantially. All political parties in The Gambia, including the former PPP, sought associations with the APRC—Jammeh's party—during the turbulent times of our history. President Barrow's decision to welcome the APRC into a coalition does not signify betrayal; rather, it underscores a commitment to inclusivity and reconciliation in a politically fractured landscape. Darboe, let us not forget your history as the first prominent PPP official to assume a ministerial post in Yahya Jammeh’s AFPRC Military Junta for four months after the 1994 coup that ousted the PPP government. You were complicit in an attempted coup plot which led to a massacre of our brave soldiers and officers during the November 11, 1994, coup attempt. Have you taken a moment to apologize to the Gambian citizens for your role in these tragic events? Furthermore, your former party PPP, just like the National Convention Party (NCP), has shown a willingness to split their support Instead of standing firm, their officials joined Yahya Jammeh and their members followed suit the very party that dismantled them. The hypocrisy of that choice is glaring. But it was accepted by you all . So what have since changed Mr. GFA? My problem is that the very people who looted our covers and misrepresented our people or were educated with the monies stolen from the Gambian populace by their parents are the one advocating justice in the Gambia. The Gambian government under the National People's Party (NPP) is actively working through a dynamic transitional justice framework, striving to hold perpetrators accountable and establish a hybrid court system. The achievements made thus far, including providing compensation to victims and supporting the transitional processes, are a testament to this commitment. It is imperative for us, as citizens, to embrace the facts and confront the realities of our current situation. The fear reflected in your recent communiqué stems from the progressive strides our nation is making under President Adama Barrow's dynamic leadership. Misinformation and attempts to hoodwink the populace will no longer be tolerated. Gambians deserve truthful discourse, clear communication, and a path forward free from the shadows of the past. We stand ready to support a brighter future for our beloved Gambia, one where honesty prevails, and we collectively move beyond the failures of those who have led us astray. In Services of the National People’s Party and Gambia Yaya Dampha Coordinator LRR NPP DIASPORA