The head of the ECOWAS Election Observer Mission to the recently held National Assembly election Hon. Mohamed Ibn Chambas, praised the conduct of the polls calling them “peaceful and credible.”Dr. Chambas was at the State House to brief His Excellency, President Adama Barrow of his mission’s observation and findings during the elections. Dr. Chambas described The Gambia as a good example to the rest of the sub-region in the conduct of elections, stating; “The Gambia should be proud of itself”, for maintaining a reputation as a peaceful people, a peaceful country who have delivered a peaceful and credible election.
Continue Reading >>H.E President Adama Barrow’s Congratulatory Remarks on the National Assembly Elections Fellow Gambians,After weeks of intense political activities in the country, I am happy to congratulate all Gambians on the successful and peaceful conclusion of the National Assembly elections held on 9th April 2022. Exercising their rights in what was clearly very keenly contested legislative elections, Gambians made their choice of National Assembly representatives from an unprecedented number of candidates from political parties to Independent candidates. On behalf of my government and family, and on my own behalf, I express deep gratitude to all the peace-loving Gambians who contributed to this historic achievement. With warm sentiments, I also congratulate the Independent Electoral Commission, the security services, political parties, Observers, the media and all other stakeholders for the roles they played throughout the electoral process. The election of diverse political party representatives and independent candidates from different backgrounds is an indication of a vibrant democracy. Yet again, Gambians have fulfilled a vital constitutional mandate in an amicable manner, thus demonstrating that our democracy is thriving. It was another test of the credibility and viability of our institutions and the mechanisms and processes we are strongly determined to safeguard and strengthen. To our credit, as Gambians, we have got over the event with remarkable success. Fellow Gambians, during the political campaigns leading to the 2021 Presidential election and the recently concluded National Assembly elections, the citizens of this nation loudly expressed and showed their passion for efficient public services that would improve their lives and livelihoods. They have demonstrated the desire for stability, sustained good governance, and infrastructural development to boost the performance of all sectors. It is clear that our people wish to maintain an environment that is peaceful, stable, and secure enough for all citizens, which is one of the top priorities of my government. These aspirations can be achieved much faster if we work as a united force. In doing so, we need to be service-oriented and committed to the betterment of the people, strive to advance and strengthen our democracy, and observe the principles of peace and justice for all. These are essential elements for good governance and progress, which we cannot ignore. Ladies and gentlemen, based on party affiliation and trust for some independent candidates, Gambians have duly elected their representatives; none-the-less, we expect all the successful candidates to work together as a legislative body to promote and serve the national interest. At this point, I must congratulate all the successful candidates on their victories, and call on the remaining contestants to join forces with us and work in the best interest of the nation. The fact that you were eligible to contest is an achievement in itself. So, bravo to everyone! In a democracy, we must embrace diversity, and it is significant that, as a country, the Legislature works independently; however, it has to be in partnership with the Executive and the Judiciary to ensure that, jointly, we serve and fulfil the development aspirations of our citizens, within a just environment. Ladies and gentlemen, I expect all Gambians and non-Gambians alike to realise that these are challenging times. This is a period when global politics and instability continue to impact negatively on our local context. We must be ready, therefore, to take up the challenge of working harder, re-dedicating ourselves to duty, and committing enough time and resources to serve the nation, both in the public and private sectors. We are blessed with a youthful population and should explore and utilise its potential to the fullest. I will not conclude without emphasising the need for us to continue to nurture our democracy, protect all rights, and respect the freedom of association and speech, as required by law. As mature and cultured people, we must realise that, once elections end, we are duty-bound to unite and serve the country as one people. Whenever we exercise our political rights and compete in national elections, we do so as actors with different viewpoints, and not as enemies. It is now time to put behind us the divisive politics and hate speeches that seem to divide the nation. This is the time to re-energise ourselves for nation building so that every citizen becomes a winner. To reassure everyone, regardless of the results of the elections, the affairs of the entire country and the welfare of every citizen and resident here will remain central in my concerns and focus. Hand in hand, let us all move on.I pray for the continued peace, progress, prosperity, and security of our people. Long live The Gambia! I thank you for your attention.
Continue Reading >>Gambians have voted in a new legislature, thirty-three of them for the first time. NPP won 18 seats, UDP 15, NRP 4, PDOIS 2, and APRC 2. An unprecedented 12 seats are independent candidates. GDC, GMC, CA, and NUP did not win any seats. Out of the 19 women candidates, only three were elected
Continue Reading >>Gambians are voting to elect national assembly members of the 6th legislature five months after the Presidential elections. An unprecedented Two hundred and forty-six candidates are vying for fifty-three seats in the National Assembly. Eighty of them are independent candidates. Polls opened at 8 am and are expected to close at 5 pm. Reports across the country indicate that voting is peaceful but voter turnout is low compared to the presidential elections. President Adama Cast his ballot at the McCarthy Square in the Banjul Central constituency. He called on eligible Gambians to turn up to the polling stations and vote peacefully.
Continue Reading >>The Independent Electoral Commission on Wednesday conducted a briefing for election observer groups accredited to observe the National Assembly elections on Saturday. The briefing held in Bijilo discussed the modalities and preparedness of the election officials to conduct a hitch-free election. In his statement, the Chairman of IEC Alieu Momarr Njai, gave a rundown of the nomination process recording 251 candidates contesting the April 9 polls. Chairman Njie further informed the observers that measures are in place to ensure smooth, free, and credible elections. The Deputy inspector general of police Inspector Momodou Sowe gave an analysis of the current security.
Continue Reading >>The Center for Policy, Research, and Strategic Studies CEPRASS in partnership with the national endowment for democracy on Wednesday convened a day's opinion sharing session. The study on the country’s post-presidential election was shared with journalists, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders. The forum was held in Bakau. Speaking at the gathering CEPRASS executive director Lamin Dampha gave a background of the project and said opinion polls are useful in making decisions on critical issues. The president of Gambia Press Union Muhammed MS Bah dilated on the importance of media in the dissemination of results on opinion polls.The polls can be accessed on the CEPRASS website: www.ceprass.gm
Continue Reading >>The IEC Regional Office in Banjul has received nominations bids from seven aspiring candidates for the April 9th National Assembly elections. Three aspirants from PDOIS, three from UDP and one from PPP have successfully submitted nomination papers to the IEC IN Banjul on Thursday. They include Ousman Sillah of PDOIS for Banjul North who is seeking a second term in office. Baboucarr Mboge and Mansour Foon of PDOIS are vying for the parliamentary seats in Banjul Central and South respectively. Muhammed Ndow of the PPP is also contesting for the Banjul Central seat. Thursday's nominations process ended with the United Democratic Party (UDP). The party has chosen Momodou Cherno Jallow for Banjul Central, Momodou Lamin B. Bah for Banjul North and Yaya Kuyateh for Banjul South. Similar engagements are also taking place in all the other administrative regions.
Continue Reading >>The Independent Electoral Commission officials at Brikama have rejected the nomination of Momodou sabally for the Busumbala constituency. This is the first time an aspiring candidate’s nomination is rejected on the spot in the run-up to the 2022 parliamentary elections. The IEC rejected Sabally’s nomination citing section 90 (1) (e) of Gambia’s 1997 Constitution. It states that “A person found guilty of abuse of office, corruption, or any offense connected with public elections by a court or anyone found by a report of a commission of inquiry to be incompetent to hold public office because of having acquired assets unlawfully or defrauded the State would also be disqualified”It could be recalled that the Janneh Commission indicted Mr. Sabally for aiding and abetting the theft of D14, 686,500 in relation to Carnegie Mineral accounts.
Continue Reading >>Five National People's Party and one independent aspiring candidate filed nomination bids on day five of nominations in Kanifing Municipality. NPP's Amadou S. Leigh is vying for the Serrekunda constituency, Assan Dampha for Bakau and a former parliamentarian for LK Sabiji Saikou Marong who is seeking re-election submitted necessary documents to IEC officials in Serrekunda. The fifth day of nominations also saw NPP aspiring candidates Fatoumatta K. Jawara of Talinding, Mustapha Lowe of Serrekunda West constituency, and one independent candidate, Ansu Camara of Serrekunda East had their credentials accepted by the Independent Electoral Commission's returning officers in Serrekunda. Another independent candidate Ibrahim Savage was asked to return on Friday after failing to present some major documents.The documents are pending scrutiny after which IEC's Joseph Colley says the aspirants will be given their acceptance letter by Thursday if all their documents are intact after the verification.Speaking to the press after submitting their credentials, all the candidates say they will win in April parliamentary elections.
Continue Reading >>The Leader of the Gambia Moral Congress (GMC) Mai Ahmed Fatty has presented his nomination papers to the Independent Electoral Commission in Basse Mansajang in URR. Mr. Fatty is contesting for the Wuli West National Assembly seat. He told waiting journalists that he is the choice of the people. Ebrima Conteh of the GMC also presented his documents for Wuli East Constituency. Mr. Conteh said was contesting because the people of his constituency were neglected for so many years. He promised to bring development to his constituency if given the chance. Meanwhile, IEC officials handed over an acceptance receipt to Hon Alhagie H.Sowe of The Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC).
Continue Reading >>Only one aspiring candidate from the lower Saloum Constituency appeared before election officials in the central river region on nomination day one. The All people's Party's Ebou K. Gaye arrived at the regional Independent electoral office to present his credentials for the April 6th National assembly elections. Gaye's nomination papers were quickly accepted, allowing IEC officials to vet his credentials pending a public scrutiny. APRC and ANRD party were also expected to present Nomination bids but the two parties didn't file any candidate in the Central River Region.After presenting his documents, Gaye told waiting journalists that he is the right candidate to represent Lower Saloum Constituency. He claimed to have the will and capacity needed for the job.
Continue Reading >>His Excellency President Adama Barrow made a momentous announcement during the prestigious annual Presidential Media Dinner held at the State House. In his address, he revealed that his administration has officially allocated land for the establishment of a permanent headquarters for the Gambia Press Union (GPU). This landmark decision is particularly noteworthy as it marks the first time a government has taken such a step since the nation gained independence, signifying a substantial commitment to fostering a robust and independent media landscape.This initiative not only represents a significant leap forward for media development in The Gambia but also underscores the administration's dedication to promoting press freedom, a fundamental pillar of democracy. By providing a physical space for the GPU, the government aims to enhance the operational capabilities of journalists and media professionals, thereby empowering them to better serve the public interest.The annual Presidential Media Dinner serves as a vital platform for reinforcing the relationship between the government and the media fraternity. It allows for candid discussions and exchanges of ideas, illustrating the President's unwavering commitment to uphold the values of a strong and independent media. This gesture strengthens the foundation for collaborative efforts that can lead to more informed and engaged citizens who are better equipped to participate in democratic processes.
Continue Reading >>In a bid to strengthen bilateral relations and explore areas of cooperation, Dr Nazim Samadov, the Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to The Gambia, paid a courtesy visit to the Gambia Radio and Television Services (GRTS) on Thursday afternoon.The visit, which reflects the growing diplomatic engagement between the two countries, aimed to familiarise the Ambassador with the operations of GRTS as the national broadcaster and strengthen ties with key public institutions.Dr Samadov and his delegation were received by Abdoulaye Sey, the Director General of GRTS, who expressed appreciation for the visit, describing it as a "positive step towards building stronger relations."The meeting provided an opportunity for both sides to exchange views on media development, public broadcasting, and avenues for cooperation between Azerbaijan and The Gambia.Following the meeting, the Ambassador and his host toured GRTS facilities, including the studios, library, master control room, and other sections, where technicians explained the broadcasting process, production, transmission, and programming.The courtesy visit ended with a mutual expression of goodwill and a shared desire to deepen collaboration between the two countries, particularly through media, culture, and tourism engagement.
Continue Reading >>In a significant event at the State House in Banjul, President Adama Barrow conducted a ceremonial swearing-in of several pivotal members of his administration. Among those appointed were Hon. Mod K. Ceesay, who takes on the crucial role of Minister for Trade, Regional Integration, Industry, and Employment, a position that underscores the government's commitment to bolstering economic growth and job creation in The Gambia. Before his new appointment, Minister ,Ceesay was the first holder of the portfolio of Chief of Staff in 2021, and later in 2024, the position of Chief of Staff was elevated to the rank of a Minister at the Presidency. Honourable Ceesay has served in various ministries as Permanent Secretary, including the Ministry of Trade. (State House)Also sworn in was Alieu Loum, who has been named Chief of Staff, tasked with guiding the President's agenda and ensuring the smooth operation of the administration. Mr Alieu Loum until this appointment,t was the Deputy Chief of Staff at the Office of the President. Mr Loum held several senior portfolios, from Director of Delivery under the Department of Strategic Policy and Delivery (DSPD) to Permanent Secretary responsible for delivery at the Ministry of Public Service. (State House)Additionally, Momodou K. Dibba has been appointed as Deputy Chief of Staff, a role that will support Loum in managing the administration’s priorities and initiatives.Mr Momodou K. Dibba was the Executive Director of the National Social Protection Agency, before this promotion. Mr Dibba, a professional economist, served in several portfolios, including Director at DSPD. (State House)During the ceremony, each official took the Oaths of Allegiance, Office, and Secrecy, solemnly committing themselves to uphold their duties with unwavering dedication and integrity. This appointment marks a pivotal moment as the new officials prepare to tackle the challenges facing The Gambia while working towards the nation’s prosperity and stability.
Continue Reading >>President Adama Barrow has reiterated his government's commitment to a free media environment, where journalists can do their job without fear, at the annual Presidential Media Dinner held at State House.The event, attended by media chiefs and journalists from across print, broadcast, and online media, provided a platform for the President and the press to interact and discuss pertinent issues affecting the media and the role it plays in building the nation.In her remarks, Director of Press and Public Relations, Amie Bojang Sissoho, emphasised that both the government and the press want the country to develop, but have different priorities and approaches, something she said should not make them enemies.Representing the Gambia Press Union, Board Member Alieu Ceesay expressed appreciation for the initiative, stating that it would solidify the good relationship between the government and the Union.Minister of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services, Dr Ismaila Ceesay, said the presidential media dinner shows the President's commitment to resetting and refining his relationship with the Media.President Barrow urged media workers to play more positive and vibrant roles in changing the Media narrative of the Gambia, saying that bulletins of most international agencies are dominated by wars and conflicts, but in the Gambia, media reports are mostly political stories and commentaries because of the democracy, peace, and security in the country.He emphasised that the way differences are moderated could enhance diplomatic and networking efforts, attract investment, and stimulate economic growth.The event was the second edition of the annual presidential media dinner, a tradition started by President Barrow last year.
Continue Reading >>The Gambia Police Force invites applications for the position of Police Constable as part of the 2025/2026 General Recruitment Exercise. All interested and qualified Gambian citizens are encouraged to apply. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS:Applicants must meet the following criteria to be considered for enlistment into The Gambia Police Force:A. Nationality: Applicants must be Gambian citizens and provide a valid Birth Certificate, National Identity Card, or Passport along with two recent passport-size photos.B. Education: All Applicants must possess a minimum of four (4) credits at WASSCE, including English Language. Candidates with specialised skills and professional qualifications are encouraged to apply:- Civil Engineering - Mechanical Engineering - Criminology & Crime Analyst - Data Science - Forensic & Biomedical Sciences - Psychology & Counselling - Cyber Security - Facility Management - Electrical Engineering• Information and Communication Technology* Forensic Auditing* Procurement * Fleet Management C. Age Limit: Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years old at the time of application.D. Height Requirement: Applicants must be at least 1.60 meters tall for both males and females.E. Fitness Test: All candidates will undergo a basic fitness test to assess their physical fitness.F. All candidates must pass an entry examination.G. Health: Applicants will be subjected to medical examination. H. Criminal Record: Applicants must submit a Certificate of Character.I. Interview: All candidates will undergo a formal interview.Application Process:Effective Monday, December 22, 2025, application forms will be available for purchase at the cost of D300.00 at all branches of The Gambia Police Force Cooperative Credit Union. Completed forms, along with copies of relevant supporting documents, must be returned to the same branch where they were obtained.Deadline of Submission: 05th January, 2026Warning: Any forgery or misrepresentation will lead to disqualification and may result in prosecution under the Criminal Offences Act, 2025For: Inspector General of Police GPF Recruitment and Selection Board For further inquiries: 9968885Date: December 18, 2025
Continue Reading >>The Government of The Gambia and the World Bank have officially launched the Gambia Infrastructure Project, a 52.6 million US dollar flagship initiative aimed at strengthening climate-resilient infrastructure, improving service delivery, and enhancing institutional capacity across key sectors to support sustainable socio-economic development.The six-year project, which is expected to run until June 2031, focuses on upgrading road corridors, boosting electricity transmission and distribution reliability, and digital public service systems, offering solutions to strengthen institutional capacity for infrastructure planning, among others.Speaking at the launch, Baboucarr Boye, the Gambia's Minister for Public Service, said the project is firmly aligned with the Recovery Focused National Development Plan and reflects the government's unwavering commitment to inclusive growth, climate resilience, and effective service delivery."The project comes at a critical juncture in our development journey. As our economy continues to expand, driven by construction, agricultural, services, and infrastructure investment, the demand for reliable transport networks and stable energy systems has never been greater," Boye said.Nani Juwara, The Gambia's Petroleum, Energy and Mines Minister, highlighted the expected impact of the project on the country's energy sector, saying the project will make significant contributions in addressing persistent challenges in electricity transmission and distribution while expanding access to reliable power, particularly for communities, at the last mile connection.The project will support the extension and densification of the electricity network in 80 rural communities, involving the construction of approximately 142 km of medium voltage lines, 350 km of low voltage lines, and 92 medium voltage to low voltage substations alongside the provision of prepaid meters for beneficiary communities.Franklin Mutahakana, the World Bank's Resident Representative in the Gambia, urged the implementing team to engage beneficiaries and obtain feedback, especially from the vulnerable, as he affirmed the World Bank's commitment to the implementation."Allow me to reiterate the World Bank Group's commitment to supporting and guiding the implementation of this project. Successful implementation is our shared joy. We also have to remember that a failed implementation will be our shared failure, and none of us likes failure. So let's strive to work together and generate the success that we've been looking for. It's the Bank's desire to register positive and effective implementation" Franklin said.In his launching statement, Ebrima Sillah, the Minister for Transport, Works and Infrastructure, said the pillars of the project, which include the upgrading of critical roads, the expansion of access to electricity, and the strengthening of key institutions, “form the backbone of any serious national development agenda.”Sillah also said he can “confidently confirm” that those investments are “fully aligned with the National Development Plan and enjoy the government's full backing with the highest level of support from His Excellency the President of the Republic Adama Barrow.""We owe it to the Gambian people to manage these resources prudently, to uphold transparency and accountability, and to deliver maximal value for every dalasi invested,” he stated.The Gambia has witnessed a massive transformation in the expansion of road networks and electricity, and stakeholders are hopeful that this project will help to further ameliorate remaining challenges in critical areas.
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