Gambia Navy Patrol Intercepted Over 100 illegal migrants

In a significant operation, the Gambia Navy Patrol vessel HSB SEADOG intercepted and arrested a boat suspected of transporting illegal migrants during a routine patrol in the early hours of Thursday, May 15, 2025.

The wooden vessel, carrying 114 individuals—including two minors—was escorted to the Naval Base in Banjul for processing before being handed over to representatives from the Gambia Immigration Department. Initial investigations revealed that the boat had departed from Bunyadu in The Gambia on Monday, May 12, 2025, and had made its way to Niwadibu in the Republic of Mauritania. Unfortunately, the crew lost their way and ended up in Gambian waters.

Among the passengers were 97 men and 17 women, many of whom appeared exhausted and in distress. Medical personnel from the Gambia Armed Forces were on hand at the Naval Base to attend to those in need of urgent care. Lieutenant Commander Fara Jobe, commanding officer of the Naval Base, oversaw the handover process to immigration officials.

Editor’s Note: It is important to condemn the perilous practice of making the dangerous journey to Europe by sea. Such treks expose vulnerable individuals to significant risks, including loss of life and exploitation. As a society, we must seek safer solutions and address the root causes of migration rather than turning a blind eye to these tragic circumstances.

CDS Cham Strengthening Civil Military Relationship In Ker Ali

On May 13, 2025, Lieutenant General Mamat O.A. Cham, the Chief of Defense Staff (CDS) of the Gambia Armed Forces, continued his nationwide tour with a pivotal visit to a military post along the Gambia-Senegal border.

During this visit, General Cham engaged directly with troops stationed at the border, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between Gambian and Senegalese security forces. His message was supported by several key stakeholders, including Ousainou Charreh, Deputy Border Post Manager, and Commissioner Basiru Njie from Senegal, who praised the robust bilateral partnership aimed at maintaining regional peace and stability.

In his address, General Cham highlighted the dual role of the Gambia Armed Forces in defense and community development, stressing the significance of military initiatives, such as the military credit union, for the welfare of personnel. He encouraged local residents to actively support the work of security agencies, stating, “The security of our nation depends not only on our armed forces but also on the vigilance and cooperation of our communities. Together, we can ensure a safer Gambia and a stronger partnership with our neighbours.”

This visit underscored The Gambia’s commitment to proactive regional security and meaningful community engagement as foundational elements for lasting peace in the border areas, marking a significant step towards enhanced cooperation in safeguarding the nation's integrity.

Gambia Armed Forces Personnel Injured in Road Traffic Accident

The Gambia Armed Forces deeply regret to inform the public that eight members of the 3 Infantry Battalion were involved in a road traffic accident. The incident took place on Sunday, 11th May 2025, between 3:00 AM and 4:00 AM, while the troops were returning from a joint security patrol between Badari and Kundam. The injured personnel have been transported to Bansang Hospital for medical treatment. The Chief of Defence Staff expresses his thoughts and prayers for the swift recovery of the injured. The Military Police are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident.

Opinion: Against Misguided Praise for Ousainou Darboe

By Balang Sisay

A Call to Accountability: Standing Firm It is both disheartening and infuriating to witness yet another attempt to mislead the Gambian populace, this time by an 80-year-old figure who seems unable to discern the line between morality and the legal consequences of his actions. The recent post by Lamin Sabally, which vainly glorifies Ousainou Darboe’s appearance on Menbe Kereng, is not only misguided but also an outright insult to the intelligence of the Gambian people. For Lamin Sabally, it is a shame to see you perpetually writing such nonsense about the UDP and its leader. You now have the audacity to express your opinions, yet when Yahya Jammeh was in power, you were among the journalists who melted down as if you never existed. You should be ashamed to raise your head. Ousainou Darboe has long been ensnared by the very consequences of his own actions—decisions rooted in self-interest, political deception, and manipulation that have marred his career. Rather than owning up to his past missteps, he resorts to twisting the narrative, a tactic unbecoming of any leader worthy of respect. While it’s true that Gambians are a forgiving people, we are not naive. We refuse to overlook a man who has repeatedly demonstrated untrustworthiness. His role in the disintegration of the coalition, the exclusion of principled leaders like Halifa Sallah and Seedia Jatta from President Barrow’s cabinet, and his involvement in the dubious Banjul 9 ambassadorial appointments are all matters we cannot forget. Now, he stands on a national platform, attempting to rewrite history and evade accountability. We must not let this happen. Gambians deserve the truth, not a sanitized version of events shaped by a politician desperately clinging to his legacy. To the producers and host of Menbe Kereng, a program that commands respect nationwide, I implore you to remain impartial. Ask the tough questions that hold leaders accountable. Do not allow Darboe to undermine our collective memory or intelligence with empty platitudes. Gambians are vigilant. We are engaged, and we demand integrity from those who seek to lead us. The time for superficial narratives and evasive rhetoric is over—let us stand firm in our pursuit of accountability and transparency. The future of our nation depends on it.

Opinion: The Forces Undermining Our Democracy

By Balang Sisay

In a recent political showdown, Mamadi Kurang faced a significant defeat at the hands of seasoned politician Hon. Halifa Sallah. Kurang, relying on his limited educational background and bravado, underestimated Sallah's decades of experience and insight, leading to a miscalculation that exposed his shortcomings. Meanwhile, Baboucarr Keita, who gained fleeting fame from a highly publicized divorce, seems out of touch with the current sentiments of the Gambian people. Citizens have moved on from personal drama and are now dedicated to fostering a stable, progressive nation. Keita's recent actions appear driven by desperation, revealing a lack of genuine political substance and an opportunistic approach that uses public sentiment for his own gain.

A troubling trend is emerging among certain political actors, characterized by naïveté and a shallow understanding of the nation's political landscape. Their inexperience and misplaced trust make them vulnerable to being manipulated by individuals with more dangerous agendas. Perhaps they should take a lesson from figures like Killa Ace and Alieu Bah—not for their political stances, but to grasp the critical balance between activism and chaos. After a series of public embarrassments, these individuals attempted to stage a comeback through provocative actions that undermine our democracy and the rule of law. Citizens cannot disregard established rules and expect to be rewarded.

What transpired in our country recently was not a demonstration; it was a blatant violation of our laws. We cannot afford to tolerate such lawlessness, which threatens our national stability. I recall a time when we believed anything was possible, only to see silence from those who once critiqued our actions for not adhering to due process. While the right to peaceful assembly is enshrined in The Gambia's 1997 Constitution, it must be exercised responsibly, without infringing on the rights and safety of others. Crossing this line transforms protected expression into unlawful disruption. This constitutional right is not only legal; it is also moral and cultural. However, we must not conflate disorder with freedom. Since taking office, President Adama Barrow has made significant strides in enlarging democratic space, displaying resilience in the face of harsh criticism toward his government and family. Observing recent processions across the Greater Banjul Area reveals a contrast: small factions reveling in unauthorized protests while the broader population remains committed to lawful governance. Some distant critics, motivated by personal grievances against the Barrow administration regarding past injustices, are using figures like Mayor Rohey Lowe for their own agendas, despite her lack of awareness of their political backgrounds. Our collective memory serves as a reminder of the past. President Barrow is emerging as a steady figure during this tumultuous time, calmly guiding the nation while upholding the rule of law. The international community is observing closely, and we seem poised to overcome yet another hurdle in our journey toward democracy. Bravo, President Barrow! Listening to influential voices like Papa Njie Girigara provides renewed hope for our national unity. I join Pa Njie in urging the Barrow government to review the situation of those recently detained and allow history to render its judgment. I remain optimistic that such measures will be taken. May Allah protect us from discord and mischief. Ba Lang!

"Exposed: Baboucarr Bob Keita’s Web of Lies and Dark Allegations Unraveled by GRA Chief"

It has been established beyond all reasonable doubt that Baboucarr Bob Keita is not merely a habitual liar but also a menace to society, with serious allegations of sexual assault hanging over him. His recent claims of a threatening phone call from President Adama Barrow two years ago are nothing more than a vivid fabrication—an utter manifestation of his delusional thinking, as unequivocally demonstrated by Mr. Yankuba Darboe, the Commissioner General of the Gambia Revenue Authority. In a statement addressing the Gambian public and all concerned citizens, Mr. Darboe emphatically denies Keita's distortions. He states that the so-called "heated argument" was merely a figment of Keita's imagination, crafted to garner sympathy and spread misleading narratives. Mr. Darboe, who facilitated the only genuine interaction between Keita and the President, made it clear that the self-proclaimed confrontation was nothing but a desperate attempt to manipulate public perception.

Contrary to Keita’s outlandish claims, the interaction was rooted in reconciliation, spearheaded by Mr. Darboe’s familial ties to Keita through marriage. Their prior acquaintance was nonexistent until last year, yet Keita now exploits this connection to fabricate stories. The divergence between reality and Keita's sensationalized accounts is stark; the President’s response to Mr. Keita’s apology was gracious and devoid of any threats or intimidation.

Mr. Darboe meticulously details how he facilitated the call, allowing Keita to deliver his apology in the presence of the President, who demonstrated commendable restraint and dignity by quickly forgiving him without further ado. Vile twists of truth surrounding Senegalese politics and personal slights against his family are nothing but bold-faced lies. To the Gambian people, Baboucarr Bob Keita stands exposed not only as a purported victim but also as a manipulative individual who seeks to distract from his own criminal behavior. His constant spinning of malicious untruths not only undermines the integrity of our leadership but threatens to damage the very fabric of our society. Let it be clear: the only intimidation at play is Keita’s calculated attempt to rally support for his image while obfuscating his own dark reality.