UDP"s Favoritism And Unequal Treatment of Gambians Exposed

By Alagi Yorro Jallow

Discrimination, Bias, and the Unequal Treatment of Gambians in International Opportunities. The ongoing issue of selective justice and bias in Gambian society is a significant barrier to national unity, particularly in the critical domain of international representation. It is deeply troubling that Gambians are not treated as equals in nominations and support for esteemed global positions. Instead, political allegiances, personal biases, and hypocrisy overshadow the essential principles of fairness and meritocracy. A recent example starkly illustrates this troubling pattern: the United Democratic Party (UDP) fervently backed Abubacarr Tambadou for the prestigious role of Judge at the International Court of Justice, a decision that was widely heralded as a source of national pride. In stark contrast, this enthusiasm was conspicuously absent when Dr. Mamadou Tangara, the country's Foreign Minister, was nominated for the position of Secretary-General of the Commonwealth. Instead of rallying support, significant opposition emerged from certain factions, including UDP supporters and surrogates, despite Dr. Tangara’s outstanding contributions to Gambian diplomacy.

This inconsistency raises a crucial question: why this double standard? Is it merely a reflection of political affiliation or blatant favoritism? If Abubacarr Tambadou, despite his controversial exit from government service, can garner widespread support, why did Dr. Tangara face hostility for seeking a position that would elevate The Gambia’s global standing? This troubling disparity not only deepens divisions but also undermines the very essence of national unity. The repercussions of such bias extend well beyond individual candidates. A culture of exclusion not only inflicts harm on those directly involved but also tarnishes the nation’s reputation and deprives it of crucial opportunities for enhancing its global influence. By failing to support competent Gambians for international roles, we are limiting our collective ability to contribute meaningfully to global discourse and pursue our national interests. It is imperative to recognize that this selective approach to international nominations erodes the sense of shared purpose among Gambians. True progress can only be realized when political loyalties are set aside, and every citizen is afforded an equal opportunity to excel based on merit. A national commitment to prioritizing qualifications, achievements, and merit over political affiliations in the nomination and support of Gambians for global roles is vital.

This merit-based approach not only enhances the country’s credibility but also bolsters its standing on the international stage. It is essential to implement transparent and impartial processes for endorsing candidates for international positions. We must establish robust mechanisms to ensure that decisions are free from favoritism or political agendas and are rooted in fairness and national interest. Civil society, including media outlets and non-partisan organizations, must actively champion transparency in these processes while holding political actors accountable for their endorsements or objections. Creating an equitable and inclusive system for international nominations has the potential to heal divisions and cultivate a stronger national identity. This moment presents a unique opportunity for Gambians to unite, placing national interests above personal agendas. A nationwide dialogue could serve as a crucial platform for rebuilding trust and addressing these grievances, bringing together stakeholders from all sectors to discuss strategies for ensuring fairness, inclusivity, and unity in representing The Gambia on the global stage. Fatoumatta: If bias and exclusion persist unchecked, the long-term consequences could be dire: deeper societal divisions, a profound erosion of trust in our institutions, and a significant miss in positioning The Gambia as a leader in global affairs. It is imperative for Gambians to collectively strive for a future where every citizen, irrespective of political affiliation, is treated as an equal and valuable representative of our nation. When any Gambian rises on the global stage, the entire nation benefits. It is only by embracing fairness, merit, and inclusivity that The Gambia can truly emerge as a shining beacon of unity and progress in the international arena.

A Year In Office IGP Touray’s Impactful Transformation of Police Force

On March 15, 2024, Seedy M. Touray was warmly welcomed into The Gambia Police Force Headquarters as he officially assumed the role of Inspector General of Police. His appointment marked the beginning of a new era—one focused on reform, modernization, and strengthening national security and international cooperation. A great leader stays connected to his people. From the outset, IGP Touray prioritized engagement with officers, conducting presentations of his vision and extensive visits to key units, including the PIU, Police Garage, Mobile Traffic Unit, and ACU, to assess operations, identify challenges, and implement solutions. To enhance efficiency, he established a Senior Management Team (SMT) to streamline decision-making and improve coordination. He also engaged all units within the headquarters to reinforce discipline and operational readiness. IGP Touray emphasized professionalism, discipline, and modernization, overseeing the commissioning of new police vehicles, deployment of critical resources, and infrastructure improvements to ensure that officers are well-equipped and motivated to serve effectively. Strengthening Logistics & Transportation: One of the immediate challenges IGP Touray tackled was logistical and transportation constraints within the force. With strategic planning and support from the government and development partners, he successfully secured over 20 new vehicles for the GPF. These additions significantly enhanced operational efficiency, rapid response capabilities, and police visibility across the country. Officers are now better equipped to patrol communities, respond to emergencies, and uphold law and order. Enhancing Road Safety: In response to the rising number of road accidents, IGP Touray initiated the Highway Patrol Unit, a specialized force dedicated to enforcing road safety laws. This initiative has been a game-changer, significantly reducing road incidents and strengthening compliance with traffic regulations. The unit’s presence on major highways has saved countless lives and ensured safer roads for all road users. Advancing Criminal Investigations: Recognizing the importance of scientific accuracy in criminal investigations, IGP Touray spearheaded the enhancement of the GPF Forensic Laboratory. By equipping it with modern forensic tools, the lab has significantly improved crime detection, evidence analysis, and case resolution rates. These advancements have strengthened the credibility of police investigations, ensuring that justice is delivered with precision and efficiency. Securing the OIC Summit: One of the biggest tests of IGP Touray’s leadership was ensuring the successful conduct of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Summit in The Gambia. This high-profile international event required meticulous planning and seamless execution to guarantee the safety of world leaders, dignitaries, and citizens. Under his command, the GPF implemented a comprehensive security strategy, deploying officers across key locations, enhancing surveillance, and coordinating closely with international security agencies. The outcome was a smooth, incident-free summit, reinforcing The Gambia’s capacity to host global events securely and efficiently. Resolving Major Criminal Cases: Under IGP Touray's leadership, the GPF has demonstrated exceptional efficiency in resolving major criminal cases. Notably, the recent apprehension of armed robbers showcased the force's commitment to maintaining public safety. All major criminal cases have been thoroughly investigated and prosecuted, reinforcing the GPF's dedication to upholding the rule of law.

Financial Contributions & Development: The GPF has also made significant financial contributions under IGP Touray's leadership. In just one year, the force generated over D240 million in revenue for the government, highlighting the GPF's role in national development and economic contribution. Commitment to Staff Welfare & Promotions:

IGP Touray understands that a motivated and well-supported police force is essential for effective law enforcement. Under his leadership, he has prioritized officer promotions, particularly for female officers, ensuring equal opportunities and inclusivity within the GPF.

Officers were also supplied with new sets of uniforms, enhancing their professional appearance and morale. His dedication to staff welfare and professional development has significantly improved morale, making the force more committed and efficient in serving the nation. National & International Recognition: The GPF’s transformation under IGP Touray’s leadership has earned both national and international recognition. The GPF was honored as the Best National Police Service in West Africa for 2023/2024, while IGP Touray himself received the Golden Star Award for Exemplary National Service in the Subregion. These prestigious awards highlight his visionary leadership, dedication, and commitment to excellence in law enforcement. Strengthening International Cooperation: IGP Touray has actively worked to position The Gambia on the global security stage. His participation in the United Nations Police Chiefs Summit in New York and his engagement with Interpol have strengthened international collaboration, allowing the GPF to adopt best practices in fighting transnational crime, terrorism, and cybercrime. Additionally, his visit to the Rwanda National Police, a force known for its efficiency, provided valuable insights into community policing and security reforms. Furthermore, the historic visit of Senegal's Inspector General of Police, General Mame Seydou Ndour, in January 2025, marked a significant milestone in bilateral security cooperation, paving the way for enhanced collaboration between the two nations. A Future of Strength: In just one year, IGP Seedy M. Touray has proven himself to be a transformational leader, dedicated to strengthening the GPF, enhancing security, and ensuring the well-being of his officers and citizens. His bold reforms, strategic leadership, and commitment to excellence have set the Gambia Police Force on a path to greater efficiency and professionalism. With momentum on his side, IGP Touray continues to lead the Gambia Police Force into a new era of policing—one that is stronger, smarter, and more committed than ever to the safety and security of the nation.

Response to Sulayman Jeng’s article on the NPP

  I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to address the assertions you have made in your recent article, one that critiques the National People's Party (NPP) and its supporters in comparison to other political entities like the People's Democratic Organisation for Independence and Socialism (PDOIS) and the United Democratic Party (UDP). Firstly, I would like to acknowledge your right to express your opinions about our party and its leadership. However, I must bring to light the glaring mischaracterizations and oversimplifications in your analysis of the NPP. The assertion that our party lacks educated and capable individuals is both misleading and unfounded. The members of the NPP are not only educated, but they possess diverse professional experiences that enrich our political discourse. To suggest otherwise is a disservice to the dedication and hard work that countless party members have invested in our nation’s governance. You criticize our supporters for allegedly failing to engage meaningfully on social media. It is essential to recognize that many members of the NPP are actively involved in governance and policy-making rather than engaging in the often-toxic environment of social media. The NPP is focused on building a party that preps the next generation of leaders rather than indulging in idle online debates. We understand the importance of constructive engagement, and while we value discourse, our priority remains the development of programs and policies that benefit Gambians across the board. NPP is not cultist party and we are far from being bunch of disgruntled people whose lack getting what they wanted makes them rebellious unpatriotic citizens.

Your observations about loyalty are also worth examining. Loyalty isn’t merely about vocal support on social media; it extends to the commitment to national progress and the willingness to engage in meaningful initiatives. Our party is committed to creating an environment where respect for our leaders goes hand-in-hand with healthy criticism. The achievements of President Barrow and the NPP are evident in multiple sectors, and rather than focus solely on rhetoric, we invite constructive engagement on how to improve our governance. Furthermore, characterizing the support for the NPP as “empty barrels” neglects the real work that many of our members are doing behind the scenes. Each party boasts unique challenges and strengths, but labeling supporters as ineffectual overlooks the complexity of political engagement. Instead of seeing our discourse as competitive, we encourage constructive dialogues that elevate our collective political maturity. I also want to respectfully highlight that dismissing our concerns regarding governance and national leadership does not serve the Gambian populace. Your call for self-reflection within the NPP is noted, and I assure you that we are constantly evaluating our progress, our strategies, and our responsibility to our citizens.

Lastly, I invite you and others to engage in meaningful discussions that transcend the biases we may hold. Political growth in our beloved Gambia can only occur if we share our insights and promote a collective future rather than furthering division. Thank you for sharing your thoughts, and I hope we can pursue deeper engagement for the betterment of our nation. Yaya Dampha NPP Coordinator Lower River Region Diaspora Association

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