Letter To The Editor On The Election Bill 2021

Anonimous Writer The Election Bill 2021 is a broad and comprehensive legal framework addressing multiple aspects of the electoral process, not just DIASPORA voting. Misrepresenting its scope for political gain only fuels misinformation and unnecessary division. Please don’t make fools of yourself my fellow Diasporanas One must have a good understanding of the bill presented to the NAMs before going out with insane accusations and finger pointing at the NPP and NRP. Quel dommage!!! What some uncouth opposition UDP bravados are doing is to hypocritically as always, seize the moment, politicize this opportunity, brainwash those who only blow hot stuff without giving meaningful dialogue a chance. The bill is larger in context, and not only so much about DIASPORA VOTING; it’s much more than that - It is about our overall electioneering process. Diaspora voting is just a minor part of it. In the grand scheme of things, no one would have concluded with the assertion that, one of the most progressive and Democratic Party in the world (NPP) would be bent on expunging the Diaspora from our election process. Remember that His Excellency President Alhagi Adama Juma Mamudou Barrow was the first in Presidency to recognize the Diaspora and an equal region in all things Gambian. Only a person set on hate and rumor mongering will either give us a bad characterization by going this low. These silly things like Hon Yahya Mentending Sanneh and the Honorable Madi Ceesay - brilliant extortionists are good at nothing but forgery, thugary, and dishonesty. Ceesay’s write ups on his social media platforms about us are just despicable and as an honorable, he must be held accountable for his penchant to misled. We must not allow the offices of such elevation to be use to misinform, mislead the constituents to grossly satisfy their putative egos. Quel dommage encore! I have had the opportunity to seek and had spoken to some senior members of the National Assembly, and in as much I want the Diaspora voting, I learn a thing or two in the context of fairness after the engagement. The NPP is never against any Diaspora voting, and anyone -oblong dry fish tiny in mind and body who wants to try us, please bring it on. We will whoop you to the curb “san doubt”!!! The social media palaver is a deviation from what is on the ground. The UDP and their nonsensical cohorts with their penchant for dishonesty are disproportionately blowing things out of order. Instead of bringing you issues of pertinence around this conversation, some opposition members especially a failed party and their leader chose to weaponize the issue for political gain. The ELECTION BILL addressed the issue of voting - with emphasis on Clause 12, 13,and 14. Mind you it ain’t a Diaspora Bill. Most specifically in Clause 14, this is what has been invoked. “14. Registration of Gambians living abroad (1) The Commission shall register a Gambian living outside The Gambia as a voter if he or she satisfies the requirements for registration prescribed under this Act. (2) The Commission shall in consultation with the Inter-Party Committee and Cabinet, prescribe detailed Rules for the registration and voting of Gambians living outside The Gambia to vote in Presidential elections, referenda or any other elections as determined by the Constitution or any other law. (3) The Rules made by the Commission under sub-section (2) shall specify – (a) the criteria for the selection of foreign countires where elections are to be conducted; and (b) the appointment of election officers and the conduct of elections.

Let us follow these clauses, and do things right. It’s important to know how, when, cost, and where before plunging our selves into something we can’t handle. The reality is that voting rights for the diaspora is not a new topic, and both sides of the political spectrum have, at different times, expressed support for it. However, the practical implementation—how, when, and under what conditions it would be rolled out—was always going to be a complex matter requiring careful planning, financial considerations, and legal clarity. This is what the Madi Ceesays are not telling you. 1. How prepared are we to get all the Diasporans registered under constituencies of their origins, living in different countries, different regions, different cities and towns? Imagine Banjulians, folks from Brikama’s, from Badibu spread across cities and towns across Europe and Americas. How do we get everyone to vote? 2. ⁠What the opposition UDP is not telling you, and you can do yourself a favor through enquiries, is that, they were pushing on what is inconsistent with the electoral laws just to earn themselves the convenience at the expense of the nation. Some of them - the UDP Assembly members wants to give the Diaspora to vote via paper ballots whilst the rest of us use marbles. It’s unconstitutional and unfair. The above plus many other slick scams UDP wants to bring were the reasons amongst others resulting in the derailment of the process! Blaming NPP and NRP NAMs exclusively, ignores the broader dynamics at play. Some of those crying foul now have previously been silent when similar proposals faced challenges. They were quiet about the age limit to favor few people. Their selective outrage exposes a deeper problem—political opportunism disguised as advocacy. Nonesense! Instead of turning the diaspora voting issue into a divisive political game, a more constructive approach would be to revisit the bill with proper stakeholder engagement, ensuring that the concerns of all parties are addressed. That is the only way to secure a fair and sustainable solution, rather than using it as a tool for political point-scoring. No one is more Diaspora than this author - being there and done that. But we cannot save the rod and spare these fools trying to cause us bad names. The NPP and our allies wants to give every Gambian to express their constitutional rights, and it starts with bringing you an election bill fair and balance so that we all can see ourselves in the equation. The work continues, more readings, and please keep your eyes open, and ignore the foolishness. June is another interesting month, and we shall come out with the best. May God guide us, our kind able leader, and our NAMs for standing up against these loudies!

Cruise Ship Docks With Over Six Hundred Tourist In Banjul

The smilling Coast of Africa The Gambia is yet again regaining its glourious name as home home to the visitors with a high inflush of tourists in the country. 2025 tourist season is really promising as The Gambia Tourism Board (GTBoard) officials and partnering agency and tour operator on Friday welcomed the latest arrival of the Azamara cruise ship. Azamara Quest docked at the Gambia Ports as over 600 tourists disembarked for a short visit to different communities in the country. This is very welcoming news for many Gambians and boast for the tourism sector and the general public. The guests were entertained by a group of cultural performers as part of the GTBoard traditional way of welcoming visitors and tourists to The Smiling Coast. Azamara, headquartered in Miami, Florida, USA, is renowned for its global cruise offerings. Azamara Quest is a mid-sized ship that provides an intimate experience, never crowded, yet equipped with everything modern travelers seek, along with some unexpected extras Whenever the ship docks in Destination Gambia, it draws crowds not only because of the ship’s grandeur but also because of the significant benefits it brings to the local area, especially the vendors that display their items for sale. The Gambia, known as "The Smiling Coast of Africa," has greatly benefited from the increasing number of cruise ships visiting its shores. These visits continue to boost the country's tourism sector. Leading the team to receive Azamara Quest, Ebrima A.K. Sanyang, senior officer, Research and Development at GTBoard, highlighted the vital role of cruise ships in The Gambia’s tourism and economy, emphasising that cruise ships are one of the key transportation modes for tourists visiting the country. Recently, The Gambia Tourism Board, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, led a promotional mission to Miami, Florida, to position Gambia as a top cruise destination. Similar promotional efforts were also carried out in Senegal. According to Sanyang, these initiatives have led to a steady rise in the number of visitors arriving in Gambia by cruise. During this ongoing season, over 18,400 tourists have visited The Gambia by sea, with 7,864 of them arriving via cruise ships. This figure excludes the 607 tourists who disembarked from Azamara Quest in Banjul, where they will explore the country before continuing their journey

Ex-Jungler Chief Bora Colley Is Dead

The former Commander of the Gambia's ousted President Yahya Jammeh killer squad is reported dead. General Bora Colly led the Junglers, a unit notorious for committing crimes against humanity, including torture, enhanced disappearances, and murder. General Colly was a key associate of Yahya Jammeh, whose 22-year rule was characterized by official corruption, murder, and extrajudicial killings. The Junglers, a paramilitary group killer machine. has been accused of carrying out numerous atrocities during the Jammeh era.

Colly was incarcerated at Mile II Central Prisons after a fallout with President Jammeh in 2016. The collapse of the Jammeh release followed Colley's subsequent release from detention. He fled to Guinea-Bissau until last September, when he turned himself over to the Gambia government. General Colley had since been in military detention. He was reported to have been struggling with health issues.

Open Letter To The Justice Ministry and Members of the National Assembly

A Call for Inclusive Electoral Reform for Gambians in the Diaspora Dear Esteemed Members of the National Assembly and Fellow Citizens,

The ongoing dialogue surrounding the enfranchisement of Gambian citizens living abroad has emerged as a crucial topic in our nation’s political landscape. The recent rejection by the National Assembly of initiatives aimed at recognizing the rights of the diaspora signals an urgent need for collective reflection and action.

Our diaspora community, which contributes significantly to the economic and cultural fabric of The Gambia, deserves a voice in our democratic processes. It is essential that we recognize their potential to shape our nation's future, not only through remittances but also by participating in the electoral system. To this end, we urge the Justice Ministry to prioritize amendments to Sections 39 and 88 of our Constitution. These amendments should constitutionally acknowledge the diaspora as a distinct electoral constituency, granting them the fundamental rights to elect and be elected, particularly as representatives in the National Assembly. By enfranchising our citizens abroad, we pave the way for their full participation in presidential and legislative elections, reinforcing our unity as a nation.

Additionally, we must create a transparent framework that enables the registration of eligible voters among the diaspora. It is vital to discern who retains their voting rights as Gambians, especially in light of those who may have acquired citizenship in their host countries. At the same time, we must safeguard against any potential abuse of our electoral system—particularly concerning individuals who may have fraudulently procured Gambian passports for asylum purposes during challenging times.

Therefore, we recommend establishing clear electoral regulations that define eligibility for voter registration among Gambians in the diaspora. This proactive approach will prevent any constitutional crises and ensure that only legitimate citizens participate in our elections. Let us work together—regardless of our political affiliations—to create laws that reflect the interests of our nation as a whole. With open dialogue and collaboration, we can design an electoral system that is fair, inclusive, and strong, ensuring that every Gambian voice, both at home and abroad, is heard and valued. In conclusion, I call upon the Justice Minister and members of the National Assembly to prioritize this critical issue and engage with diaspora stakeholders in crafting effective solutions. Together, we can shape a brighter future for The Gambia, founded on inclusivity and justice. Yours sincerely, Yaya Dampha Diaspora Coordinator, LRR NPP Sundsvall, Sweden.

Ajaratou Maimouna Baldeh: A Visionary Leader Redefining Women’s Roles in Politics

Ajaratou Maimouna Baldeh: A Visionary Leader Redefining Women’s Roles in Politics. Much like the Lady Macbeth of Shakespearean fame—admired for her courage and vision—Maimouna Baldeh embodies a bold and transformative spirit. She redefines women’s roles in politics with a determination that inspires and uplifts. Alagi Yorro Jallow Fatoumatta: In a world where greatness is often measured by humanitarian impact, power, and wealth, a select few redefine what true success means. Ajaratou Maimouna Baldeh, the National Women’s Mobilizer of the National People’s Party (NPP), stands out as such a trailblazer. Her life exemplifies selflessness, dedication, and unwavering service to others. As International Women’s Day approaches on March 8, 2025, it is only fitting to honor this extraordinary woman, who has profoundly impacted the hearts and minds of Gambians. Like a master strategist on a chessboard, Ms. Ajaratou Maimouna Baldeh is driven by a singular mission. Emerging from Sankuleh Kunda in the Central River Region (CRR), she embodies the presence of a modern-day monarch boldly declaring royal edicts—a powerful display of political ambition. Born into a noble yet humble lineage, she is the daughter of Seyfo Momodou Lamin Baldeh of Upper Fulladu West and Chief Mansa Musa Molloh, the last king of Fuladu. This region, extending across modern-day Senegal and The Gambia, is steeped in history, where Mansa Musa Molloh deftly navigated the delicate balance between British and French colonial powers, fiercely preserving his people's independence. From a young age, Ajaratou Maimouna Baldeh demonstrated exceptional compassion and an unwavering desire to uplift those around her. This profound empathy has paved her path and transformed her into a beacon of hope for countless individuals. Since her election as National Women’s Mobilizer, Ms. Maimouna Baldeh has been ascending the political ranks—emerging as a champion of the common people within the resilient Central River Region. Known for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant ecosystems, this land has also nurtured generations of warriors—descendants of Mansa Musa Molloh, admired for their courage, artistry, and strength. Today, Ms. Maimouna Baldeh is focused on forging her legacy as a formidable political force. Her reception echoes that of a Greek hero returning from battle. Much like Julius Caesar, who crossed the Rubicon to forge his path to Rome, Ms. Ajaratou Maimouna Baldeh seems to have crossed her own pivotal threshold, boldly declaring a political campaign to propel her party and President Adama Barrow toward victory in the upcoming presidential election. Where Caesar met his foes with the clash of swords, Ms. Maimouna Baldeh engages in her political battles armed with the piercing power of her words, delivered with captivating intensity. She masterfully wields her rhetoric to leave a lasting impact. Throughout history, the tales of heroes have held audiences spellbound. The hero’s journey, filled with trials and triumphs, inspires countless individuals. Ms. Maimouna Baldeh is casting herself as that hero, ready to confront the daunting challenges that lie ahead. Once she gains momentum, she becomes an unstoppable force—her resilience unmatched by her opponents. The careful selection of words, the evocative imagery, and the strategic crafting of a politician’s narrative resonate deeply with voters.

Ms. Ajaratou Maimouna Baldeh excels in this arena, employing a powerful literary technique known as melodrama. This approach prioritizes impactful dialogue, often marked by grand expressions of emotion over mere action. One of the most striking elements of melodrama that she utilizes is the intense emotional appeal. After her election as National Women’s Mobilizer, she skillfully depicted herself as the underdog standing against formidable state forces, rapidly rallying her supporters around a common cause. By anchoring her campaign in emotional resonance, Ajaratou Maimouna Baldeh exemplifies Aristotle’s principles of rhetoric, showcasing the essential qualities of ethos (credibility), logos (logic), and pathos (emotion). Ms. Maimouna Baldeh acutely prioritizes pathos, while the government struggles to counter with logic. The political arena has become a battleground, and Ms. Baldeh stands poised for the monumental confrontations that await. Fatoumatta: In the vibrant tapestry of life, we gather to honor a powerful force in Gambia’s political arena: Ajaratou Maimouna Baldeh. Her inspiring journey serves as a beacon of natural leadership, humanism, and pioneering spirit, illuminating the hearts and minds of all she meets. From her youthful days, she exhibited a remarkable gift for leadership, believing that nothing is beyond reach. As she ventured into politics, first as a member and then as the National Women’s Mobilizer of the ruling NPP, she not only excelled but also demonstrated her exceptional abilities as a proactive and passionate politician. Advocating for human rights, social justice, and economic empowerment, she has become a formidable champion for the marginalized. Within her party, Ajaratou Maimouna Baldeh stands out as a trailblazer, earning respect and admiration across political divides while uniting Gambia’s intricate political landscape. Witnessing her evolution from a successful rural woman to a political powerhouse has been nothing short of extraordinary, exemplifying the indomitable resilience of the human spirit and her unwavering determination. Her steadfast commitment to meaningful causes has secured her a lasting legacy in history.

Despite not having an extensive formal education, her accomplishments affirm the timeless wisdom that a life lived with purpose and achievement far outweighs one spent in obscurity. Her name is now enshrined in our collective memory. Driven by a profound sense of loyalty and dedication to service, Ajaratou Maimouna Baldeh boldly transitioned from a promising career and embraced the uncertainties of politics, moving from a housewife to a seasoned civil servant. She has garnered the affection of both her supporters and even those who initially opposed her candidacy as the NPP’s National Women’s Mobilizer. It is clear that she is no ordinary politician. Her charm and friendly nature make it easy for her to connect with people from all walks of life. She has poured her heart and soul into supporting President Adama Barrow and the NPP, never faltering even when the odds seemed insurmountable. Her unwavering mantra, even amidst despair, is “It is well.” Her resilience is further exemplified by having survived two life-threatening motor accidents on her journey to power. What is truly remarkable about Ajaratou Maimouna Baldeh is her ability to shatter long-standing stereotypes. She has challenged the outdated belief that women in politics must conform to superficial standards, proving that true strength lies in substance and character. Ajaratou Maimouna Baldeh is redefining what it means to be a woman in politics, dismantling the outdated notion of the "dumb blonde" and paving the way for future generations of women leaders. Fatoumatta: We will never truly know what might have been, but the prospect of her serving as governor in her own right was tantalizing. We firmly believe she would have become a groundbreaking and astute politician, embodying a zero-tolerance approach to sloppiness and greed. Unfortunately, that potential will remain untapped. Yet, like many others, we extend our heartfelt wishes as she embarks on her final, inevitable journey as a formidable woman politician. It comes as no surprise that the NPP chose her as the National Women’s Mobilizer—a position she transformed into a powerful platform for engagement and empowerment among NPP women in Gambia and the diaspora. Throughout her illustrious career, she has been a tireless advocate for gender equality and women’s rights. Her efforts have driven transformative agendas and policies, empowering women economically, socially, and politically. Her unwavering dedication has ignited inspiration in a new generation of women leaders, making a significant contribution to a more inclusive and just Gambian society. In a challenging political landscape, Maimouna Baldeh’s journey stands as a beacon of resilience. She has skillfully navigated the complexities of Gambian politics, administrative hurdles, and societal expectations with unyielding determination. Through her relentless resolve, she has emerged as a source of inspiration for aspiring leaders. Her journey exemplifies what it means to lead—characterized by resilience and a profound commitment to serving the nation. Her legacy will continue to inspire those striving for positive transformation in their communities. Through her remarkable achievements, she has left an indelible mark on Gambia’s political, social, and economic landscape—a mark that will shape the nation's course for generations to come. As a young woman, Maimouna Baldeh embarked on a powerful journey of self-discovery, seeking knowledge and wisdom to elevate her community. With steadfast determination, she pursued her education, recognizing it as the key to unlocking opportunities for herself and others. Her quest for knowledge led her to become a teacher, passionately dedicating herself to the development of future generations. However, Maimouna Baldeh’s influence extends far beyond the classroom. She identified the urgent needs within her community and embraced her responsibility to address them. Driven by compassion and resilience, she ventured into the political arena, becoming a member of the NPP and rising to the esteemed role of National Women’s Mobilizer. This historic achievement shattered barriers and opened doors for countless women to follow in her footsteps. As a trailblazer, she has inspired a new generation of female politicians, demonstrating that gender should never be an obstacle to pursuing public service and making a profound impact on society. Throughout her vibrant political career, Maimouna Baldeh has passionately championed causes close to her heart. With boundless energy, she has tirelessly advocated for women's rights through innovative mentorship programs and economic empowerment initiatives, firmly believing in the transformative power of gender equality. Her pivotal role in supporting President Adama Barrow during the 2021 elections was instrumental, helping to secure both his election and re-election. Maimouna’s support extended to her colleagues, guiding them towards success in the National Assembly and Local Government elections. Empowering women to realize their full potential has been at the core of her mission, as she knows that when women flourish, entire communities thrive. She has been a powerful voice for the voiceless, and her unwavering commitment to social justice and equality has earned her the admiration and respect of constituents and fellow leaders. Fatoumatta: Maimouna Baldeh's legacy, however, reaches far beyond her political achievements. At her core, she is a devoted philanthropist, always eager to lend a helping hand to those in need. Her heartfelt dedication to serving humanity has positively impacted the lives of countless Gambians. With financial assistance to underprivileged families and robust support for women's empowerment initiatives, she tirelessly advocates for enhanced healthcare facilities. Her generosity knows no bounds. Through her life’s work, she uplifts the less fortunate and equips them with the tools necessary for success. As a politician who champions the causes of women and girls both within her party and beyond, her philanthropic endeavors have transformed communities and inspired others to emulate her example of selfless kindness.

Moreover, Ajaratou Maimouna Baldeh is a woman of profound faith. Her spirituality serves as a guiding light, providing her with strength and resilience in challenging times. This strong conviction fuels her accomplishments and commitment to serving others. Her exemplary character, integrity, and moral compass make her a beacon of inspiration for generations to come, encouraging others to embrace spirituality and lead lives grounded in faith and service. Maimouna is not only an advocate for change, but also a cherished pillar of support for her family, instilling values of love, compassion, and integrity in their lives. Ajaratou Maimouna Baldeh stands as a formidable politician and an inspiring philanthropist whose life radiates unwavering dedication to God, selfless charity, and exceptional service to the Gambian people. We honor her profound contributions and celebrate her as one of the extraordinary women who have indelibly shaped Gambia’s history. On this International Women’s Day, let us take a moment to reflect on the transformative impact she has had on our nation and the world at large. Her life is a powerful testament to the values of selflessness, dedication, and tireless service to others. Ajaratou Maimouna Baldeh teaches us that true greatness is not measured by wealth or power but by the ability to uplift lives and effect positive change. Let us honor her remarkable legacy by embracing the spirit of compassion, resilience, and commitment to service that she embodies. Each of us can make a difference in our communities, just as she has consistently done. The political legacy of Ajaratou Maimouna Baldeh will forever resonate in the annals of Gambian history, and her societal impact will undoubtedly inspire future generations. May her legacy continue to ignite hope, and may she be blessed with enduring health, happiness, and fulfillment. Her name, Ajaratou Maimouna Baldeh, will always be a beacon of strength and inspiration. Her heart overflows with compassion and joy, and her boundless generosity has touched countless lives. Through her innumerable acts of kindness, she has provided hope and solace to those in despair, offering a helping hand to orphaned children and those in need, restoring their dignity and uplifting their spirits. Ajaratou Maimouna Baldeh's political journey is a testament to courage and determination. In the corridors of power, she has left an indelible mark, consistently advocating for the most vulnerable among us. As she continues to shape Gambia’s narrative, her vision for our nation remains steadfast and unwavering. She envisions a Gambia where every citizen, irrespective of location, gender, or background, plays a vital role in driving national growth and progress. Her legacy transcends mere accomplishments; it embodies empowerment, unity, and a powerful catalyst for change within Gambia and its diaspora. Fatoumatta: Ajaratou Maimouna Baldeh’s journey is the epitome of transformative leadership, advocacy, and relentless perseverance. Through her outstanding achievements, she personifies the spirit of a visionary, using her influence to uplift her fellow citizens and spark inspiration in future generations. Today, we honor and celebrate Ajaratou Maimouna Baldeh as a true icon, a living legend, a remarkable woman of merit, a guiding light, and an enduring source of inspiration for all Gambians. On this International Women’s Day, you exemplify what it means to live a life rooted in purpose and impact. We celebrate your extraordinary journey, your triumphs, and your joys, and we fervently pray that your legacy continues to thrive and inspire.

BREAKING: "Ontario Premier Doug Ford brings the hammer down on Donald Trump and Elon Musk

"Ontario Premier Doug Ford brings the hammer down on Donald Trump and Elon Musk over the disastrous MAGA tariffs — announces cancellation of a lucrative Starlink deal and bans all American companies from government contracts. And he was just getting warmed up... "Starting today, all U.S.-based companies will be banned from taking part in government procurement. Every year the province and its agencies spend about $30 billion on procurement alongside our more than $200 billion plan to build infrastructure," said Ford. "U.S. based businesses will now lose out on tens of billions of dollars in revenues. They only have President Trump to blame," he stated bluntly. "I'm also urging all four hundred and forty-four municipalities to do the same and I'm thrilled to see some are already stepping up." he continued. "For example, Mayor Patrick Brown and the city of Brampton and many other cities." "As part of this government-wide procurement ban we're going one step closer. We're ripping up Ontario's contract with Starlink. It’s done, it’s gone," he said of the $100 million deal. "We won’t award contracts to people who enable and encourage economic attacks on our province and our country," Ford added. "Alongside federal tariffs and the measures my fellow premiers are being forward, this is Team Canada's opening response," he said. Ford has also threatened to cut off electricity to the United States and slap a 25% surcharge on the energy exports to New York, Michigan, and Minnesota. Meanwhile, the U.S. stock market is in free fall and prices are already skyrocketing. If Trump doesn't reverse course immediately we are going to hurtle head first into a full-blown recession."