Editorial MCA's Vigilant Governance: A Milestone in Gambian Public Health

By Alagi Yorro Jallow Fatoumatta: In a monumental victory for public health, the Ministry of Health and its Medicines Control Agency (MCA) have once again reaffirmed their unyielding dedication to the well-being of Gambians. Their bold decision to temporarily close Opticalia’s Senegambia branch following a routine inspection that uncovered unlicensed eye-drop bottles sends a powerful message: the health and safety of Gambians are of the utmost importance. This rapid response not only prioritizes consumer safety but also underscores a commitment to ensuring that the welfare of the Gambian population is absolutely non-negotiable. Dr. Essa Marena, the MCA’s Executive Director, confirmed that the inspection uncovered drugs imported without the necessary approval or licensing, in flagrant violation of our stringent regulations. In response, the MCA swiftly seized these unauthorized products and has signaled that sanctions—ranging from administrative fines to possible prosecution—will follow, depending on Opticalia’s response. This bold intervention is not merely an act of regulatory compliance; it is a safeguard against harm—a shining example of proactive vigilance that prevents potential disasters before they unfold. In a marketplace where unapproved drugs can often masquerade as safe, the MCA’s rigorous oversight ensures that only the highest standards of quality, safety, and efficacy prevail. Coupled with the broader “Unapproved Drugs Initiative,” which seeks to purge our market of substandard and dangerous medications, these actions reinforce the foundation of a secure healthcare system. They also serve as a poignant reminder that the risks of unregulated substances are too dire to ignore—a lesson that history has etched deeply in our collective memory. The memory of the tragic cough syrup crisis, which claimed the lives of an estimated 66 Gambian children due to toxic chemical contamination, looms large. All children affected suffered acute kidney damage and an inability to urinate, prompting intervention by the World Health Organization (WHO) when medical officials observed a surge in such cases among children under five in late July 2022. The crisis underscored the devastating consequences of negligence and inadequate oversight in drug importation and distribution. Through these efforts, pharmacists and healthcare professionals are reminded to exercise due diligence, ensuring that only verified and approved medicines reach the hands of the public. With informal markets sometimes circulating potentially perilous products, the MCA’s preemptive stance is not only timely but vital to safeguarding our communities. Fatoumatta: The MCA’s resolute initiative in acting against Opticalia epitomizes the kind of leadership that protects our citizens from negligence and greed. It is a call to action—a message that all Gambians can find solace in knowing that their health is defended by institutions ready to act decisively in the face of danger.The Ministry of Health and MCA’s recent action against Opticalia demonstrates their commitment to protecting Gambians from harm and preserving public trust. This level of accountability, combined with ongoing reforms and international support, can pave the way for safer healthcare systems in The Gambia. Gambians deserve nothing less than the utmost dedication to their well-being.

The Rise of The Fift Columnists A New Threat To The Gambia

By Alagi Yorro Jallow A Dire Threat to the Future of Gambian Democracy. The Gambia’s transition from dictatorship to democracy stands as an inspiring symbol of hope and resilience. The peaceful ousting of Yahya Jammeh’s oppressive regime showcased the power of citizens uniting to reclaim their voices and assert their democratic rights. However, democracy is not merely a destination; it demands continual engagement, vigilance, and unwavering commitment to its core principles. Today, The Gambia confronts a new and insidious threat to its hard-won progress—the rise of fifth columnists. Fifth columnists are individuals or groups who operate secretly within a nation, organization, or institution to sabotage and destabilize it, often serving the interests of external adversaries. They employ various subversive tactics, including espionage, sabotage, propaganda, and misinformation campaigns, with the ultimate goal of undermining the very foundation of their target. Their covert operations, both online and offline, are designed to incite public outrage, deepen societal divisions, foment ethnic or ideological tensions, and erode trust in democratic institutions. In The Gambia, the term “fifth columnist” has increasingly become a rallying cry, signaling a growing awareness of the internal threats facing the nation’s emerging democracy. These subversive actors exploit weaknesses within the system to advance their own agendas, often using strategies that incite toxic populism, disseminate falsehoods, and manipulate public sentiment. The consequences of their actions can be politically devastating, sowing discord and paving the way for regime instability and potential upheaval. Their methods are not just damaging; they are a harbinger of significant societal and political turmoil. Fatoumatta: The phrase "fifth column" has its roots in the Spanish Civil War (1936–1939), when Nationalist General Emilio Mola infamously declared that, as his four columns of troops marched toward Madrid, a "fifth column" of insurgents and sympathizers within the city would rise to support them. Although the actual impact of these insurgents remains debated, the term has since become synonymous with internal betrayal and the peril of subversion from within. Throughout history, the concept of a fifth column has been applied to various political and social contexts. During World War II, fears of infiltration led to widespread paranoia and, tragically, unjust persecution, as seen in the internment of Japanese Americans in the U.S.

Today, the term has evolved to encompass a new reality, highlighting internal threats within politics, governance, and even the corporate sector. In the digital age, fifth columnists extend their reach beyond physical infiltration; they navigate the online realm, harnessing the power of social media and digital platforms to disseminate disinformation, sow discord, and undermine established institutions. In The Gambia, we witness this phenomenon manifesting through unverified reports and anonymous articles crafted to incite public fury and delegitimize credible institutions. The motivations behind these efforts are evident—destabilization and exploitation for political or ideological gain. Cloaked in the guise of activism or journalism, fifth columnists exploit the trust of the public and the freedoms safeguarded by democracy. Their true aim is not to promote the common good; rather, they seek to serve hidden agendas aligned with personal or political ambitions. By spreading false narratives and igniting division, they erode public confidence in the very institutions that uphold democracy. This calculated chaos creates a fertile ground for instability, undermining the democratic progress that Gambians have strived to achieve. It is imperative that the citizens of The Gambia remain vigilant and united against this new threat. The survival of democracy depends on our collective resolve to stand against those who seek to undermine it. Together, we must protect the hard-fought gains of our democratic journey and ensure that the spirit of resilience and hope continues to shine brightly in our nation. Fatoumatta: Figures like George Christensen and Swaebou Conateh, along with other dedicated independent journalists, stand as exemplars of integrity in the ongoing fight for democracy. Christensen’s fearless reporting during critical moments, such as the April 2000 student demonstrations, and Conateh’s steadfast commitment to the truth serve as powerful reminders of the essential role that genuine journalism plays in unifying society. Their legacies starkly contrast with those of fifth columnists—individuals who betray the foundational trust that journalism and activism are meant to uphold. In our digital age, the reach and impact of these fifth columnists have expanded exponentially. They adeptly harness social media and online platforms to disseminate disinformation on a staggering scale. Anonymous articles and unverified stories spread rapidly, igniting public outrage and deepening ethnic and political divisions. These are not mere side effects of political discourse; they are deliberate efforts to distort public perception and destabilize governance. Modern democracies are grappling with severe security threats—misinformation, political subversion, and social unrest—that often reflect the manipulative tactics of fifth column activities. These crises rarely occur by chance; they are orchestrated by unseen actors who exploit situations for their political advantage. In The Gambia, this alarming trend is increasingly clear, as the rampant spread of unverified information and incendiary rhetoric erodes national unity and undermines trust in our leaders. Fifth columnists systematically exploit the weaknesses of digital platforms, amplifying their divisive narratives and distorting public discourse. Their strategies not only undermine confidence in democratic institutions but also erode the very foundations of our society, making our institutions more vulnerable to collapse. Such actions pose a grave threat to the hard-won progress in democracy, press freedom, and social cohesion that we have strived to achieve. For Gambians, this presents a critical and urgent challenge: how do we safeguard our democracy from those who seek to exploit it? The answer lies in vigilance and accountability. We must question the motives of those who claim to champion our causes. True activists and journalists stand firm on the principles of truth, justice, and societal advancement, while fifth columnists forsake these ideals, using them merely as a disguise for their subversive agendas. The rise of the fifth columnist in The Gambia is a sobering reminder of how fragile our democratic progress can be. To protect our democracy and ensure social cohesion, we must remain resolute against these internal threats. Identifying their tactics and exposing their motives are crucial steps in diminishing their influence. As a nation, we must reaffirm our steadfast commitment to transparency and accountability, along with the values that sustain our democracy. Let us truly “beware the Ides of March.” This phrase serves not only as a historical cautionary reminder but as a clarion call to action—an urgent plea to defend the hard-won successes of our democratic journey. This is a defining moment for The Gambia. The freedoms and rights we have gained after enduring years of oppression must not be wasted; they must be fiercely protected. Fatoumatta: By uniting against fifth columnists and recommitting ourselves to the principles of democracy, we can secure a brighter future. Let this be a rallying cry for all Gambians—a powerful acknowledgment that the work of democracy is never complete and that its protection demands our collective responsibility.

POLICE RESPOND TO ARMED ROBBERY IN BALLANGHAR, CRR - SUSPECT IN CUSTODY

The Police in CRR responded swiftly to an alleged armed robbery involving two shops, Hadim Touray’s and at a Mauritanian shop in Ballanghar Kerr Nderry, CRR, on the evening of March 22, 2025. The timely response and coordination by the Police and regional sister forces, along with the support and cooperation from the people of Ballanghar, were instrumental in containing the incident and apprehending one of the suspects. The Gambia Police Force commends the solidarity demonstrated by the community of Ballanghar. During the confrontation, one suspect, identified as Yerro Sheikh Sowe (Senegalese, from Rosso, Senegal), sustained a gunshot wound and was stabilized at Kaur Health Centre before being transferred to Farafenni General Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. Another suspect, Amadou Bah (Senegalese, from Sare Wurry), was apprehended by villagers during a hot pursuit. A bag containing D29,910 and 93,000 CFA was recovered from him. Amadou Bah admitted being part of the armed robbery along with three other fugitives, all of whom are Senegalese nationals. According to Amadou Bah, the rifle (hunting gun) used during the robbery, along with three live bullets, belonged to the deceased Yerro Sheikh Sowe. The rifle is yet to be recovered, and efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining suspects. A combined team of investigators from Police Headquarters has been dispatched to support the regional response team and assist with the ongoing investigation. The Gambia Police Force urges the public to remain vigilant and report any information that may be helpful to the investigation to the nearest police station or call 9968885. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.

FIRST LADY FBB CALLS FOR REGIONAL COLLABORATION TO ENHANCE SERVICES FOR GBV SURVIVORS

The First Lady of The Gambia, Fatou Bah Barrow, has called on her fellow First Ladies in the region to collaborate in addressing the negative socio-cultural contexts that perpetuate Gender-Based Violence (GBV). “I wish to assure my continued commitment to the call for gender equality and the empowerment of women. I also pledge to work closely with the First Ladies of Guinea, Sierra Leone, and Senegal to jointly tackle the effects of negative social and cultural norms on GBV by enhancing services for survivors. Additionally, we will engage in community dialogue and raise awareness,” she remarked.

First Lady Barrow expressed gratitude to the UNFPA and the governments of The Gambia, Guinea, Sierra Leone, and Italy for organizing this important side event during the 69th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women. "We have learned and witnessed the sharing of experiences on best practices and lessons from the progress registered over the 30 years of implementing the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action in our region and beyond," she added. She emphasized the importance of building a regional movement focused on transformative change through strategic partnerships across the continent. The movement aims to eliminate barriers to gender equality and actively invest in adolescent girls over the next five years, ahead of Beijing+40, with the ultimate goal of meeting the Sustainable Development Goals. Furthermore, First Lady Barrow highlighted that her organization, FaBB, in collaboration with the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), will forge partnerships with civil society and local communities to create a safer and more inclusive environment free of GBV. This new movement seeks to dismantle the stigma surrounding GBV, which often deters survivors from reporting incidents or seeking help due to fear of retaliation, social exclusion, or disbelief. First Lady Fatou Bah Barrow delivered her closing statement at an event organized by the Governments of The Gambia, Guinea, Sierra Leone, Italy, and UNFPA. The event was moderated by Ms. Cecile Mazzacurati, Gender & Human Rights Advisor at UNFPA, and took place on Monday, March 17th, at the UN Headquarters in Conference Room E. The Gambian delegation was ably represented by the Secretary General and Secretary to Cabinet, Mr. Alieu Njie, Spouse of the Vice President, H.E Mariama Jallow, Permanent representative to the United Nations, Lamin B. Dibba, Ambasador Momodou Lamin Bah amongst other delegates.

Momodou Sabally Rubbishes UDP'S Lare Sisay

On the Conspiracy Theory and Outlandish claims of Lare Sisay My initial My initial reaction to Lare Sisay’s claim that President Barrow plans to rig the 2026 election was to ignore the outlandish allegations of a disgruntled retired conspiracy theorist. But knowing the gullibility of some people in a society whose literacy levels are still quite low, I thought of a measured rebuttal based on facts and figures. Indeed a fasting Sarahulleh or Kiangka man may be easily swayed by claims of an old man who once worked for the UN. With hunger and thirst at the throats of these my favorite ‘sanaws’ they may be misled by a man they would not imagine could stoop so low as to make claims that are false during this holy month of restraint and repentance. But men like Lare Sisay who seem not to be bothered by either moral or spiritual laws, can do anything in their unrestrained desire for worldly gain and fame. Therefore it is obligatory to set the record straight

Those who have been following Lare in the media already know that this man has no respect or appreciation for facts and #figures; and this is evidenced by outlandish claims he made in an interview on Coffee Time with Peter Gomez citing financial figures that fall way above what the recurrent and development budget numbers of NAWEC could ever come close to. This is one of the reasons why (with hindsight) I am comfortable that President Barrow won the 2021 election. Imagine a man like this being Secretary General and Head of the Civil Service in this country? I honestly wanted UDP to win the 2021 election. But when we lost, I eventually accepted the decree of Allah and moved on. And then gradually I later saw and heard things that further convinced me that (perhaps) the results obtained may be the in the best interest of our country as dictated by the Most High. A person like Lare calling the shots at State House could spell disaster. And perhaps that’s what former President Yahya Jammeh knew and fired him within 72 hours of his appointment as Secretary General in 1994, rendering him the shortest lived SG in the history of this country. In a recent political event where a top UDP member from Central Badibu defected to join the NPP, I stated unequivocally that, with my greater acquaintance with the political realities of this country since I switched sides to NPP, I owe the (now-retired) Chairman of the IEC an apology for my previous claims that the 2021 election was rigged. As for the scoffers who may want to rant about my reversal of position regarding the 2021 election result, I can assure them that I am very comfortable changing my position on a matter once I have better and more reliable correct information. I don’t want to have anything to do with a consistency based on wrong information once I come to know the truth about a matter. As a student of the sage of Concorde, I am not interested in “foolish consistency”. Indeed, the American Philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson is right: “A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds, adored by little statesmen and philosophers and divines.” Having joined the NPP, and toured the length and breadth of this country, I am convinced that the NPP actually has more supporters among the eligible voter population than the opposition parties combined. This is the fact and I am not afraid of admitting my errors once evidence is presented and known. That is why I find Lare Sisay’s claims that President Barrow and the NPP cannot win the next election ridiculous. This man, who has never conducted, or spoken at, a proper political rally, cannot claim knowledge and expertise on turfs that are foreign to him. But a man with his ego can make any claims despite their baselessness. His further prognostication of Barrow losing the 2026 election based on the results of the statistically insignificant Massembeh Ward by-election makes his contingent ridiculous claims of Barrow declaring a state of emergency to extend his stay in power beyond 2026, ridiculous and malicious. Taking the 1213 total votes cast in the Massembeh Ward by-election as a percentage of the total of 859 thousand votes cast in the 2021 election yields 0.1 %. Who, in his right mind, would consider that a reliable sample size that would yield the desired confidence level, and margin of error to make any respectable prediction in this age of data science in a knowledge economy? Instead of engaging himself in making baseless ridiculous claims aimed at misleading the public, the old man Lare Sisay should perform ablution, pray two rakas and seek forgiveness from God for his false statements. This man who was the brain behind the UDP’s ill-fated 5-points Agenda should know that he does not possess the sagacity or tenacity to change the course of history in this country. It is people like Lare, who actually cost the UDP the 2021 election by bringing in plagiarized blueprints that are alien to the realities and emotions of the targeted voting population; and, hence, inadvertently laid a red carpet for President Barrow and the NPP to be blessed with a cakewalk into State House in 2021. This is the truth; and Lare Sisay’s vain imagination can never twist that fact into his imagined alternative reality in this blessed country called the Smiling Coast of Africa where the youths are very very very happy. Momodou Sabally Special Adviser to the President of the Republic of The Gambia; Former Secretary General, Presidential Affairs Minister, and former Campaign Manager of UDP.

Selective Justice and Its Implications: Biases Within Civil Society Selective

Alagi Yorro Jallow Fatoumatta: Selective justice is one of the most contentious issues facing Gambian society, particularly in the post-Jammeh era. Justice systems—both transitional and institutional—are meant to be bastions of fairness and accountability. Yet, when justice is perceived as selective, it undermines trust and deepens societal divides. In The Gambia, the outcomes of the Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparations Commission (TRRC) have sometimes been viewed as biased. While the TRRC has successfully uncovered stories of oppression and facilitated justice for many, critics argue that certain individuals have evaded accountability due to their political connections. This threatens the integrity of the justice system, creating a hierarchy where the politically influential escape consequences that ordinary citizens cannot. The situation becomes even more troubling when individuals with links to oppressive regimes or questionable dealings are embraced by political factions. Such actions send a clear and disturbing message: justice is not blind; it is selective. To rebuild trust, we must have a justice system that is transparent, impartial, and insulated from political interference. Justice must be equitable for all Gambians, ensuring that reconciliation is grounded in fairness rather than exclusion. The challenge of selective justice and bias in Gambian society not only erodes trust but also jeopardizes national unity, particularly in terms of international representation.

Fatoumatta: It is disheartening that Gambians are often treated unequally regarding nominations and support for prestigious global positions. Instead, personal biases, political allegiances, and hypocrisy frequently overshadow principles of fairness and merit. A glaring example of this troubling pattern is the recent endorsement by the United Democratic Party (UDP) of Abubacarr Tambadou for the honorable position of Judge at the International Court of Justice, a moment celebrated as a national triumph. In stark contrast, the same enthusiasm was conspicuously absent when Dr. Mamadou Tangara, the country’s Foreign Minister, was nominated for the role of Secretary-General of the Commonwealth. Rather than rallying support, a wave of significant opposition emerged from certain political quarters, including UDP supporters, despite Dr. Tangara’s commendable record in promoting Gambian diplomacy. This raises a pressing question: why the inconsistency?

Ideally, civil society should function as a neutral advocate for equity, justice, and progress. However, when biases infiltrate this sphere, the capacity to hold political actors accountable diminishes, further weakening the democratic framework of the nation. In The Gambia, civil society organizations (CSOs) have been pivotal in championing human rights and good governance. Yet, their autonomy is often called into question due to perceived allegiance with political parties or individuals. Such biases erode the moral authority of CSOs, hindering their effectiveness in advocacy and mediation. Selective advocacy—where some issues receive attention while others are sidelined based on political or personal motives—significantly undermines public trust. A robust and unbiased civil society is essential for nurturing national dialogue, advocating for marginalized voices, and ensuring that leaders are held to account. To achieve this, CSOs must firmly commit to neutrality, inclusivity, and transparency, prioritizing the collective good over individual or partisan interests. The failure to adopt a new constitution serves as a stark illustration of how political self-interest can stall national progress. Fatoumatta: A new constitution was envisioned as a fresh start for The Gambia, embodying the principles of democracy, equality, and justice. Its rejection, however, has left many Gambians disillusioned, sowing deeper divisions within society. The rejected draft constitution was crafted to address pivotal issues—such as term limits, enhanced checks and balances, and robust protections for human rights. The rejection of this crucial document, influenced primarily by partisan interests, not only reflects a disinterest in national priorities but also underscores the challenges of uniting a fractured political landscape on matters that should unify the nation. Moving forward, the adoption of a new constitution must be treated as a national imperative. This undertaking requires authentic dialogue among all stakeholders, free from political gamesmanship. Gambians deserve a constitution that resonates with their aspirations, champions fairness, and establishes a solid foundation for sustainable governance. A Path Forward: To confront these interconnected challenges, The Gambia must embark on a collective journey of introspection and action. Reforming Justice Systems: We must create robust mechanisms to safeguard the justice system from political interference. This includes a thorough review of TRRC recommendations to ensure accountability and fairness for everyone. Strengthening Civil Society: It is crucial that civil society organizations uphold strict neutrality, diligently holding all political actors accountable. The time has come for a united commitment to justice, equity, and genuine democratic progress for all Gambians. Fatoumatta: The Gambia stands on the brink of transformation. By confronting the critical issues of selective justice, inherent biases, and the urgent need for a new constitution, the nation can embark on a path toward unity and prosperity. To realize the vision of inclusivity and progress that its people deserve, The Gambia must embrace fairness, transparency, and a steadfast commitment to national interests. Selective justice poses a significant threat to social equity in The Gambia, eroding the foundational principles of fairness, equality, and trust that are vital for a just society. Consider its far-reaching impacts: Selective justice undermines public confidence in the legal and judicial systems. When people perceive that certain groups or individuals receive preferential treatment based on political affiliations, social status, or connections, it breeds a profound sense of injustice. This disillusionment discourages citizens from seeking justice through legal channels, fostering a culture of impunity and deepening societal resentment. The inequitable application of justice exacerbates existing societal disparities. Marginalized groups often bear the brunt of selective justice, lacking the political power and resources to influence outcomes in their favor. This deepening of social inequities fuels divisions along class, ethnicity, and political lines, further fracturing the social fabric. Fatoumatta: In a politically polarized environment like The Gambia, selective justice heightens tensions and divisions within society. When justice appears to favor one group over another, it fosters mistrust and animosity between communities. This polarization not only undermines national unity but also hampers collective efforts to tackle shared challenges. In the context of transitional justice—especially with the ongoing work of The Gambia's Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparations Commission (TRRC)—selective justice can derail attempts at reconciliation. If certain individuals or groups are perceived as immune to accountability due to political biases, it compromises the legitimacy of reconciliation processes and further exacerbates wounds from past injustices. When citizens lose faith in justice due to perceptions of bias, they often disengage from civic life. This apathy can lead to lower voter turnout, diminished community involvement, and a pervasive sense of hopelessness regarding the potential for positive change. The economic ramifications of social inequity driven by selective justice are equally concerning. A culture in which corruption and nepotism thrive stifles investment and innovation while restricting opportunities for upward mobility. Access to justice and resources should not depend on connections but rather on merit. Furthermore, selective justice undermines the rule of law, creating a system in which laws are applied inconsistently. This not only weakens the foundation of governance but also cultivates the perception that the system serves the privileged few rather than the populace at large. Fatoumatta: To address these pressing challenges, The Gambia must prioritize comprehensive reforms that promote transparency, accountability, and impartiality within the justice system. By strengthening institutions, fostering a culture of meritocracy, and ensuring the judiciary is free from political influence, The Gambia can achieve social equity and restore vital public trust. The time for action is now—together, the nation can forge a brighter and more equitable future.