Gambia:My Government will never lose sight of its pledge to undertake relevant institutional and legal reforms– President Barrow

By Bakary Ceesay

President Adama Barrow on Thursday reiterated his government’s commitment to the institutional reforms in line with global standards and best practices while presiding over the swearing-in of Supreme Court Judges, President of the Court of Appeal, Judicial Secretary, the Ombudsman and Minister of Youth and Sports.

The appointees; Supreme Court Judges, Justice Awa Bah and Edrissa Fafa M’bai, President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Omar Musa Njie, Judicial Secretary, Aisatou Jallow-Sey, the Ombudsman, Bakary Sanyang and Minister of Youth and Sports, Bakary Badjie, respectively, took the prescribed oaths of office, today at the State House in Banjul.

Describing the occasion as his government’s continuous search for Gambians to partake in institutional buildings, President Barrow said: “The continuous review of our reform programmes makes it necessary to set new goals for our institutions, review our laws and procedures, and continually improve output by creating and maintaining, at all times, a positive attitude to work and nation.” He added that such appointments clearly show the importance of collectively working together to achieve national objectives.

“Credible institutions are not mere structures with furniture and equipment. Through systems that operate to serve the public, they are made functional by the good character, intelligence and expertise of the people who staff them.’’ President Barrow observed.  The Gambian leader urged the appointees to commit to improving on their performances and the output of their offices.

In her statement, the newly appointed Justice of the Supreme Court, Justice Awa Bah, hailed the President for accepting the recommendations of the Judicial Service Commission, while commending his commitment to the independence of the Judiciary.

“Today, we are proud to say the Judiciary of The Gambia under the new Gambia has for the first time in its history not only a Supreme Court with a panel of five Judges who are all Gambians but also a Court of Appeal with an unprecedented compliment of Gambian Judges. This indeed is very reassuring that justice delivery by capable sons and daughters of this land is at the heart of this administration.’’ She remarked.

The newly appointed Minister of Youths and Sports, Hon. Bakary Badjie thanked the President for the confidence bestowed on him to lead such a vital Ministry. To meet the requirements of today’s realities he said, young people should be at the fore of national development, through the identification of their skills and talents to actively participate in public administration.

“I desire to attain maximum participation and excellence in sports and sporting activities at national and international levels. This we cannot achieve without the right investment and support from Your Excellency, the Cabinet and all other stakeholders.’’ He noted.

In his remark, the Chief Justice, His Lordship, Hassan B. Jallow said hard work and integrity are crucial in appointments in the functions of the state.   He seizes the opportunity to call on the government to continue to support the Judiciary with resources to enhance their operations.