The Unquestionable Progressive Achievements of President Adama Barrow's Government.

By Yaya Dampha Coordinator NPP LRR Diaspora .

Under the visionary leadership of President Adama Barrow, The Gambia is undergoing an inspiring transformation marked by impressive advancements in national development, democracy, and good governance. President Barrow’s administration exhibits a robust commitment to fostering economic stability, implementing civil service reforms, combating corruption, and enhancing local governance. These initiatives are not only reinforcing the nation’s foundation but are also paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for all Gambians. At the start of President Barrow's tenure, the National Treasury was alarmingly low, with reserves covering less than three months of expenses. Today, thanks to his prudent management, The Gambia boasts over seven months' worth of national reserves. This remarkable turnaround signifies not just improved fiscal responsibility but a robust economic foundation poised for sustainable growth.

Reforming the Civil Service: The Barrow administration has bravely tackled the deep-rooted issues of corruption and inefficiency that plagued the civil service under the previous regime. By instilling a culture of discipline and patriotism, President Barrow is reshaping the bureaucratic landscape into a more accountable and effective entity that serves the citizens of The Gambia with integrity and professionalism.

Commitment to Anti-Corruption: President Barrow has taken a decisive stand against corruption, exemplified by the establishment of the Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparations Commission (TRRC). This groundbreaking initiative addresses past injustices while fostering an unprecedented level of transparency and accountability within government institutions. The TRRC's efforts underscore a firm commitment to exposing corrupt practices and ensuring that those responsible for misconduct face justice. Local Governance Reforms: The creation of the Local Government Commission represents a monumental step toward decentralization and empowerment of local governance. By promoting citizen participation and strengthening local governments, the administration is enabling communities to assert their voice in governance, cultivating a sense of ownership and agency among Gambians. Judicial Accountability:

The government’s proactive measures to tackle cases of official corruption and theft signify President Barrow's unwavering resolve to uphold justice. With ongoing prosecutions in the courts, this approach ensures that corruption does not go unpunished, holding those in power accountable for their actions. Promoting National Cohesion: President Barrow champions national unity and consensus building—critical components in our diverse society. Through a range of initiatives and dialogues, his administration is dedicated to nurturing a spirit of reconciliation and collaboration, paving the way for a more inclusive national identity that embraces all Gambians. Infrastructure Development: Recognizing the vital role of infrastructure in economic progress, the government has placed a strong emphasis on development as a catalyst for advancement. Strategic investments in roads, energy, and essential projects enhance connectivity, stimulate growth, and ultimately lead to job creation and improved living standards for the people of The Gambia

In conclusion, President Adama Barrow’s government has achieved remarkable progress in fortifying the nation’s stability, governance, and economic growth. By strategically prioritizing the enhancement of national reserves, implementing comprehensive civil service reforms, intensifying anti-corruption measures, and establishing resilient local governance structures, President Barrow is paving the way for a prosperous future for The Gambia. These bold and decisive actions underscore his unwavering dedication to national advancement and ensure that every Gambian can truly partake in the benefits of the country’s promising developmental trajectory.

Neneh Freda You Cannot Belittle Fatoumatta Jawara

Neneh Freda Gomez, your attempt to mock and belittle the courage of Fatoumatta Jawara, the shero of the 2015 protests against Yahya Jammeh’s oppressive regime, reveals a profound lack of understanding and respect for the sacrifices made by those who fought for the rights of Gambians. While you sit in the comfort of your political blunders, Fatoumatta stood bravely in the face of danger, risking her life for the freedom and dignity of her fellow citizens.

Let’s not forget the context: Fatoumatta was not just a participant; she was a leader, a beacon of hope who led a movement when many cowered in fear. She faced the possibility of death, torture, and incarceration yet stood her ground, blowing her whistle to demand justice and accountability from a tyrant. While you feign relevance in today's political narrative, she was imprisoned with her newborn, enduring unimaginable hardships for the sake of justice in The Gambia.

You, Neneh, may consider yourself a political actor, yet your actions suggest otherwise. You have jumped from one political figure to another, conveniently avoiding commitment while serving your own self-interests. Your voice now adds nothing of value to the discourse around the sacrifices made by Fatoumatta and her compatriots. If you truly understood the struggle, you would know that mocking a hero only diminishes your own credibility and exposes your ignorance. What have you done for The Gambia? Where were you when the calls for justice echoed through the streets? While Fatoumatta and others were bravely facing the wrath of a regime that plagued our country for far too long, you were busy looking for relevance instead of stepping up when it truly mattered. Your critique is not only misplaced; it is deeply disrespectful.

Let this serve as a reminder: those who sacrifice for the greater good deserve our utmost respect. If you cannot offer that respect, then perhaps it is best to remain silent. The narrative of struggle is not for your amusement but a testament to the bravery of individuals who risk everything for their country. So, before you seek to undermine the legacy of true heroes in The Gambia, consider the weight of your words and the significance of the struggle that continues today. It’s time for you to reflect on the impact of your actions and begin to stand with the people who genuinely fought for change, rather than belittling them from a distance. If you have nothing meaningful to contribute, perhaps it would be wise to step back and let the true warriors speak. Fatoumatta Jawara and all who fought on that fateful day in 2015 deserve nothing less than our thanks and unwavering respect—not derision from those who have never walked the walk Yaya Dampha Sundsvall Sweden

Rural Development at The Heart of Barrow's Agenda- Momodou Sabally

President Barrow has also boldly placed rural development at the heart of his governance, spearheading a wave of revitalization that echoes through the countryside. The revival of mixed farming centers and the launch of groundbreaking infrastructure projects are not just improving the livelihoods of Gambians in remote villages—they are reimagining what’s possible for those living at the fringes of our nation. Meanwhile, the pulse of urban development beats steadily on, with the ambitious Banjul Rehabilitation Project breathing new life into the heart of the Greater Banjul Area, ensuring that urban spaces grow to match the aspirations of their people.

Championing an innovative commitment to gender equality, President Barrow’s administration has shattered historical barriers by appointing women to positions of power that have never before been held by a female in The Gambia’s history. The nation’s first female Minister of Agriculture, Minister of Trade … stand as symbols of progress, while the creation of the Ministry of Women, Children, and Social Welfare demonstrates a focused effort to address gender issues head-on and build a future where women’s voices resonate with authority. - E. C

POLICE INVESTIGATE ALLEGED MURDER IN BRUFUT HEIGHTS

The Brusubi Police are investigating a suspected murder reported in Brufut Heights on Monday, 10th March 2025. The deceased, identified as Reuben Andrews, a 63-year-old Gambian and retired banker, was found motionless and tied with a rope in his bedroom following a report by his wife. Preliminary investigations established evidence of forced entry and theft of valuables, including laptops, phones, and cash amounting to $7,000, £2,000, and between D9,000–D10,000. A ladder and a cutlass were recovered at the scene. Upon close scrutiny, a footage confirmed the presence of the watchman and maid earlier that day. The duo are currently at large and believed to be on the run. Facts further established that both are Sierraleonean nationals. Crime Scene Investigators were at the scene to gather forensic evidence to support the ongoing investigation. The victim was evacuated to Ndemban Clinic, where he was confirmed dead before being transferred to the EFSTH Mortuary for further examination. Investigations are ongoing, and the public is urged to report any information that may be helpful to the nearest police station or call 9968885.

"NPP Will Win 90% Votes in the Diaspora" Colonel Sam Sarr

For the past week, my ears have been bombarded with a cacophony of forwarded messages—both in written and verbal form—decrying the National Assembly Members (NAMs) of the NPP and their coalition partners for voting against a bill that allegedly “disenfranchises diaspora Gambians.” The outrage, though loud, follows a predictable script. Once again, the usual opposition chorus—composed of domestic party loyalists and a handful of self-appointed diaspora revolutionaries—has seized the microphone, spinning a narrative of victimhood and betrayal.

What piqued my interest in this controversy, however, was not the bill itself but the familiar faces orchestrating the uproar. These are the same career demagogues who reject every government initiative with clockwork precision—often without proposing a single viable alternative. Ironically, most of them have never held administrative roles or wrestled with the complexities of governance. From their self-righteous vantage points, they fling criticisms, mistaking loudness for wisdom. But let’s puncture their illusion. The idea that a scattered group of Western-based Gambians—many of whom pontificate from the comfort of their apartments, reliving their political grudges—somehow represent the entire diaspora is laughable. Having lived abroad for decades, I can confidently say that the overwhelming majority of Gambians in the diaspora are not part of this English-speaking activist class that dominates online discussions. Instead, they form a silent but formidable bloc—entrepreneurs, traders, construction workers, and taxi drivers—whose primary concern is economic stability, not the ideological crusades of online firebrands. Take the Bronx, New York—home to one of the largest Gambian communities abroad. If one were to conduct an impromptu survey on Jerome Avenue, where Gambians gather in large numbers, I would wager that 90% would cast their ballots for the NPP. Their business-oriented mindset prioritizes stability over opposition theatrics. So, the question remains: who exactly are these self-proclaimed diaspora representatives speaking for? As for the domestic opposition, their selective outrage over this bill is as hypocritical as it is amusing. The very clause that governs diaspora voting is rooted in the 1997 Constitution—a document they have long sought to replace. If the ultimate goal is to discard the so-called “forbidden” constitution, why cherry-pick a single provision to defend? Either the entire constitution is illegitimate, or it isn’t. Moreover, let’s dispense with the misinformation. The bill in question isn’t some single-issue attack on diaspora rights—it’s an extensive election bill with 157 clauses. Those fixated on a lone provision are either uninformed or deliberately misrepresenting the bigger picture. According to the 1997 Constitution, the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) is mandated to register any Gambian of sound mind who is at least 18 years old. The only stipulation? They must be registered in one of the country’s 53 constituencies. Meaning, if diaspora Gambians wish to vote, they are free to return home and cast their ballots in their designated constituencies, as some already do. But let’s entertain the opposition’s argument for a moment. If the government were to allow diaspora voting as they demand, the IEC would have to provide ballot boxes for every constituency and distribute them worldwide. Logistically, that is a nightmare of absurd proportions. The government’s proposed alternative—a constitutional amendment that establishes designated diaspora constituencies—is a far more practical and forward-thinking solution. This would allow Gambians abroad to not only vote but also elect their own representatives to the National Assembly. If that isn’t a more logical and effective approach, then what is?

Now, let’s talk about the so-called injustice of barring dual citizens from holding political office. Both the 1997 Constitution and the 2020 draft constitution maintained stringent restrictions on dual citizens vying for key government positions. Yet, the revised 2024 Constitution offers a groundbreaking shift by lifting these barriers, allowing dual citizens to contest for office. That’s progress. But, of course, the opposition remains entrenched in their dogmatic stance, ensuring that meaningful dialogue on these developments is drowned out by their relentless antagonism. Amid this noise, I stumbled upon an article by Mr. Omar Bah of The Gambia Standard, reporting the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)’s disappointment over the National Assembly’s rejection of the bill. Predictably, the NHRC parroted the opposition’s talking points, insinuating government complicity in suppressing diaspora voting rights. But let’s place this in context: out of Africa’s 54 sovereign nations, only a handful—Senegal, Algeria, Angola, Cape Verde, Mozambique, Tunisia, South Africa, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, and Niger—have provisions for diaspora voting. Notably, none of the ECOWAS Anglophone nations have adopted it, a testament to its complexity. Rather than fanning public resentment with emotionally charged rhetoric about diaspora remittances, the NHRC should have offered practical solutions for implementing diaspora voting in a way that aligns with national realities. But, as we all know, the NHRC is stacked with hardcore opposition loyalists whose allegiance lies not with objective governance but with political activism disguised as human rights advocacy. At the heart of this entire debate lies an inconvenient truth: without a consensus on adopting either the 2020 or 2024 draft constitutions, The Gambia is left with a stark reality—the 1997 Constitution remains the legal foundation of the state. Instead of waging an ideological war over which draft constitution should be accepted, why not take a pragmatic approach? Why not revisit the 1997 Constitution, reinstate beneficial provisions that were removed from the original draft, and eliminate those that no longer serve the national interest? This remains a viable, common-sense option—one that was previously suggested by Halifa Sallah and deserves serious consideration. For now, the opposition can continue their theatrical outrage. But the majority of Gambians—both at home and abroad—are more concerned with governance that works, not political posturing that leads nowhere. COL SAMSUDEEN SARR

Coroner’s Inquest Requested Bora's Death Under Custody

In accordance with the laws of the Gambia when a person dies under custody of the State Central Prisons or security services a Coroner’s report must be provided to ascertain the actual cause of death of that person. Section 6(1) of the Coroners Act specifically indicates that : when a person dies while in police custody, under the supervision of a prison officer, or in prison, the police officer, prison officer, or any individual responsible for the care of the deceased at the time of death must immediately notify the nearest Coroner. The Coroner will then conduct an inquiry into the cause of death. Such a Coroner shall exercise all the powers conferred by the Criminal Procedure Code upon a magistrate holding a preliminary inquiry. To this effect the Gambia government through the Minister of Justice has ordered for inquest to investigate the possible causes of death for former army Brigadier General Bora Colley who died Sunday evening. Jarranews confirmed this from the press statement issued by the Gambia Armed Forces on Monday morning March 10 2025. Bellow is the full detail of the press release.

The Gambia Armed Forces regrets to announce the passing of Brigadier General Bora Colley on 9 March 2025. Brigadier General Colley voluntarily returned to The Gambia on 9 August 2024, after eight (8) years of self-imposed exile, citing deteriorating health conditions. During his time in exile in Guinea-Bissau, he also traveled to Casamance and the Middle East. Following his return, Brigadier General Colley was taken into state custody due to the circumstances surrounding his departure and his implication in the Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparations Commission (TRRC) report, which recommended his prosecution for the killing and torture of victims in various locations in The Gambia. While in custody, his medical condition was assessed and found to require continuous medical monitoring, which was provided by the state. Despite these efforts, he succumbed to his medical condition on 9 March 2025. Meanwhile, the Hon. Attorney General and Minister of Justice has applied to His Lordship, the Hon. Chief Justice for an inquest to be conducted pursuant to the Coroner’s Act in respect of the Deceased who died while in the custody of the Armed Forces. The purpose of the inquest is to ascertain the actual cause of death of the Deceased. The Gambia Armed Forces extends its condolences to his family. *The Government of The Gambia remains committed to fully investigating and prosecuting cases that arose from the recommendations of the TRRC, as contained in its White Paper on the TRRC Report.* Issued by: DHQ , Gambia Armed Forces Banjul, The Gambia 10 March 2025