Gambians have been reassured by MC Cham Jr., a Business Councilor at the Kanifing Municipal Council, that the measure recently enacted by the National Assembly by the former president does not warrant any concern. According to him, it is probable that this legislation will be revoked once the opposition takes office.
“Before all else, I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to the UDP and PDOIS NAMs for their abstention during the bill’s session. It is imperative to acknowledge that the decision has the support of the majority of the Gambian people. “I wish to emphasize that everyone should not be disheartened; this law, which was passed by the members of the National Assembly, is easily reversible,” he stated.
MC Cham Jr., an ardent UDP supporter, lauded the UDP NAMs for their principled position, which he perceives as an indication of their authentic dedication to the nation’s well-being. He unequivocally stated that his political party abhors the improper use of public funds.
“People label you UDP if you speak the truth,” I’ve stated on numerous occasions. Nevertheless, the UDP’s stance against this measure serves as clear evidence of their dedication to the truth. This indicates that this law will be reconsidered once a government led by the UDP assumes office. “While it is recognized that former presidents are entitled to specific advantages, it is not feasible for our economy to support them financially and have them maintain the same salary as the current president while the state provides for their families,” MC Cham Jr. clarified.
MC Cham Jr. informed the members of the ‘No To Alliance’ National Assembly that he had previously advised them that the primary target of the measure was President Barrow, not former President Jammeh.
“I had previously communicated to the ‘No To Alliance’ that President Barrow, not Yahya Jammeh, was the intended recipient of this bill.” The ‘No To Alliance’ was in attendance at the National Assembly when the Minister of Justice unequivocally clarified this. He declared that Yahya Jammeh would face legal action, in accordance with the government and the TRRC’s recommendations. Therefore, Yahya Jammeh does not qualify for these advantages. Despite Fabakary Tombong Jatta’s efforts to intervene, the speaker had already delivered the intended message. Their intention was to capitalize on the situation for political advantage through their implication that Yahya Jammeh could potentially return. “However, this is irrelevant to Yahya Jammeh,” he proclaimed.
Former Gambia Democratic Congress campaign manager MC Cham Jr. emphasized that members of the National Assembly representing the ‘No To Alliance’ faction ought to prioritize resolving the unpaid salary of Yahya Jammeh.
“The ‘No To Alliance’ ought to bear in mind that Yahya Jammeh is legally entitled to a salary, but has yet to receive it, in accordance with an existing legislation.” For the betterment of the nation as a whole, I advocate that opposition parties participate in dialogue and reconciliation. Concern need not be expressed regarding the recently enacted bill by the former president, given that it is readily repealable. Bear in mind that the age restriction that was previously enshrined in the constitution was altered during a change in government. Likewise, Section 91 (d) was eliminated. He continued, “This law, which was enacted to serve the interests of a single individual, can be repealed via the identical procedure.”
Additionally, MC Cham Jr. urged all UDP supporters to expose government embezzlement by utilizing the former president’s measure.
“I implore all UDP supporters to highlight the government’s embezzlement and incorporate it into the platform of their campaign.” The situation in the country has deteriorated significantly, resulting in numerous fatalities during the perilous voyage to Europe, despite the absence of a statement from the government regarding the situation. “Their entire agenda appears to revolve around Ousainou Darboe and the UDP; it appears they only respond when he speaks,” he remarked.
In response to presidential counsel Dou Sannoh’s assertion that the NPP would cruise to victory in 2026 should the UDP nominate Lawyer Ousainu Darboe as their candidate, MC Cham Jr. criticized Sannoh’s comprehension of internal politics.
“Having heard Dou Sannoh’s statement, it appears that he is ignorant of the inner workings of politics. It seems he has forgotten the mayoral election, during which you were defeated in areas where you had the advantage, all because of Attorney Darboe’s leadership. Your current position was advanced in actuality through the use of Attorney Darboe’s name. Bear in mind that Attorney Darboe and the UDP were the ones who first acquainted the Gambian people with Adama Barrow. It is more important to resolve the challenges facing the nation than to debate whether or not Lawyer Darboe should be the Flag Bearer. He concluded, “The NPP is in jeopardy without President Barrow, as the party was formed primarily in the State House, and the majority of you joined for personal gain.”
The former president’s office, as mandated by the recently passed former president’s bill, shall remain operational from the moment a former president vacates office until their successor is sworn in. The government is obligated to furnish the office to a cabinet-level standard and appoint a minimum of four personnel, including a personal assistant and personal secretary, within six months of a president’s resignation.