Halifa Sallah remanded in Mile Two

Halifa Sallah, former NADD presidential candidate and Foroyaa Editorial Board member, told supporters and sympathisers at the Brikama Magistrates Court, that he is willing to become a sacrificial lamb to ensure the liberty and dignity of the people. He made this remark at the close of his first appearance in court since he was arrested on Sunday 8 March, 2009.

“I am ready to suffer for others not to suffer, but what is going on must come to a stop,” he told his audience. He told them that there is no need for them to despair. He asked them to go home, but they need not worry that he could not possibly meet the conditions of the bail granted. He indicated that he was looking for their strength and not their weakness. He stressed to them that they needed to be strong.

These words evidently touched the audience and the grim faces soon became bright.

Shortly after the adjournment of the case he was whisked to the Remand Wing of Mile Two Prison.

Many people in court were dumbfounded when the Magistrate imposed the following bail conditions:
(1) A bail bond in the sum of 1 million dalasis to be signed by three sureties;
(2) Two of the sureties must be Ex-Inspector General of Police or Ex-Brigadier of the army who have been retired for at least eight years;
(3) One of the sureties must be an Alkalo (village head) from Western Region

When he appeared in court, three charges were read to him:
(i) Spying, in that while at Makumbaya, he had obtained confidential information which he knew is useful to the enemy
(ii) Control of processions in that he held a procession while in Makumbaya
(iii) Seditious intention in that he unlawfully assembled the people of Makumbaya in order to collect information that would bring hatred or contempt or excite disaffection against the Government of The Gambia.

He pleaded not guilty to all three charges.

The police prosecutor then stood up at this point to oppose the granting of bail. He argued that they took a lap top from Halifa Sallah’s home which is in their possession and if Halifa is granted bail he may tamper with the ‘website of the lap top’.

Halifa Sallah, who was unrepresented, submitted that the offences alleged are bailable. He further submitted that every accused person is presumed innocent until he/she has pleaded or proven guilty. He also submitted that the hearing of the case should be free and fair. He concluded that the court should not restrain his ability to defend himself.

He opined that what is significant is for the court to ensure his appearance whenever it deems it fit. He pointed out that he had sought the highest office of this land as a presidential candidate in 2006. He assured the court that he would comply with whatever condition the court imposes to ensure his appearance at an adjourned date as long as the conditions are reasonably justifiable in a democratic society. The magistrate did not like the last bit of the statement and after a brief exchange Halifa amended it to: “I will comply with whatever the court deems just.” He therefore asked the court to grant him bail.

He pointed out that the submission of the prosecution regarding the lap top is neither here or there in that in the first place the lap top does not belong to him but his wife.

Fishing Expedition
He asserted that the prosecution were simply engaged in a fishing expedition. He emphasised throughout his detention that he had never been confronted with any witness.

Culled from Foroyaa

Gambia's Obama

Readers,
I have just finished reading Lawyer Mai Fatty's, address to Gambians and its just great. This guy is very talented. For me, he is our very owm Obama.


I am thankful to Allah, for your prayers and concerns during my hospitalisation for life threatening injuries. In particular, I am profoundly grateful to my family and colleagues at the Bar for their timely intervention in help saving my life. Let me report that my recovery has been phenomenal, thanks in large part to them. Many thanks go to my friends as well, for their care and support during this traumatic life-changing experience. I would love to be amongst your midst today, but my doctors have not yet given me the final nod to completely abandon care and return home, even though the confidence in my health condition has never been so real like now. Therefore, I am obliged to heed medical advice, and that is why I am conditioned to communicate to you through the media in this way, and at this time, and not in person. I miss you, I love you Fellow Gambians, and I look forward to returning to our Homeland.

I would like to introduce to you your new political Movement, The Gambia Moral Congress, which I am fortunate to lead at this challenging time. You will also get the chance to know, hear from our other Leaders on different occasions. We intend to share with you our Enduring Values to serve as some of the reasons for our formation. We urge you to read on.

Today we witness a new beginning in the annals of Gambian history; a new beginning that shall usher in a new era of hope, freedom and prosperity for all Gambians. Today, we proclaim the dawn of a new era; an era that shall be defined by the genuine triumph of the will and aspirations of our peoples who have for too long endured under a political system characterised by cult patronage of apocalyptic proportions. More importantly, today, at this historic moment, we declare the ferocious imminence of total victory against the malignant forces of organised political deception in our Nation.

Today, we embrace the coming into effect of our Future which is NOW, and the rise of this Great Land to towering heights of inconceivable possibilities — a people who firmly believe that the purpose of government is to act as the SERVANTS of the people and NOT as their MASTER; a people who are staunch in the irrevocable conviction that freedom and independence are priceless, and must be pursued persistently and valiantly till conclusive victory, knowing that power never concedes anything by itself. Today, with sombreness, we draw inspiration from the fundamental principle contained in the historical lessons of Sankandi — the lesson that freedom based on popular but discretionary loyalty and consent of the governed is worth the ultimate sacrifice. Today, we re-affirm our unwavering faith in the might of reason over raw power.

Today, we seek to accelerate the celebration of the triumph of Democracy — a day when journalists shall be free to practice their creed without fear of persecution; when Judges and Magistrates shall be subordinate only to the Constitution of the Land without the wanton desecration of the concept of judicial tenure; when the people’s elected deputies shall accord due prominence only to the people’s business in Parliament instead of compulsive partisanship without fear of retribution; when all law enforcement agencies shall collectively practice allegiance to the Constitution and Sovereignty of The Gambia.

Today, Fellow Gambians, we proclaim the dawning of a transformational era, when teachers in our schools and lecturers in our centres of higher learning shall be free to teach in accordance with the highest academic values — to unleash the noble pursuit of intellectual and scientific excellence from pernicious political bondage; when the civil and public services shall be the hallmark of objectivity, ingenuity, innovation, discipline, patriotism, service and sacrifice in the over-riding national interests; when freedom itself shall be expanded, and the gates of equal opportunities for all Gambians opened for good. This we DECLARE for and on behalf of generations of Gambians here at home and around the world. Together, we shall make leaders and elected representatives truly accountable to the people, instead of the whims and caprices of the few; and to take purposeful steps in redeeming our sovereign reputation.

Today, we proclaim our Friendship with the world, to join the global community in the fight against poverty and disease, tribalism, xenophobia, civil strives and its diabolical impacts on civilians, the building of strong sustainable economies, the integration of African economies into the world economy, food security, the fight for peace, security, international diversity, the environment, and cooperation with civil societies around the world to achieve global values such as democracy, good governance, the rule of law, racial harmony, gender issues, child rights, globalisation, etc. Today, we connect our hearts to our fellow Africans everywhere and declare that securing and strengthening the interests of Africa shall be the primary focus of our diplomacy, and relations with the Republic of Senegal at the fore-front. Together, we shall work towards rapid bilateral economic cooperation, political concord, and finally resolving for good the diplomatic impasse massively accentuated by a sustained policy of insincerity, propaganda and indifference.

Together, we shall bring peace to The Gambia’s southern frontier settlements that are the constant victims of armed incursions, and other violent crimes. Together, we shall ensure that The Gambia-Senegal basin is weapons free, and free of armed bandits masquerading, and those who harbour them or patronise them. We believe that it is in The Gambia’s national security interests to work for and support the speedy, but peaceful resolution of the Casamance imbroglio as a first measure, prior to other measures. We shall induce firm confidence in our Special Preferential Relations with Senegal, not only because both Nations have no better options to the contrary, it is equally the persistent demand of peoples on both sides of the border as the only right thing to do. This unique preferential relation must be based on unwavering sincerity, demonstrable mutual respect for sovereign independence and integrity, and sovereign equality for it to endure.

These are the vital elements which must inspire and command our attitude towards each other at the highest level. We believe that The Gambia’s national interests are best protected and advanced by promoting peace and cooperation rather than confrontation and conflict.

Above all, a GMC government foreign policy shall be citizen-centred by which we shall not flinch to utilise the full effects of our sovereign diplomatic goodwill to protect every single Gambian on foreign shores. We consider our diplomatic resources a formidable national asset, and shall empower capacity, enhance and expand the role of the Department of State for Foreign Affairs, with increased resources and facilities. Let each and every Gambian, where ever you may be at this hour, and no matter your condition, circumstance or status, be confident that we are always on your side and we shall always be with you. In particular, those Gambians who are compelled or impacted by the circumstances of on-going political practices, or sought refuge elsewhere, be informed that indeed help is on the way. You shall once gain reunite with your families, loved ones and friends here back home, in dignity, freedom and prosperity.

Today is also opportunity to express appreciation to Hon. Ousainou Darbo, Leader of the UDP for his patriotism, in the growth of pluralism. Gratitude is owed to Hon. Hamat Bah NRP, Hon. Halifa Sallah & Hon. Sidia Jatta NADD, Hon. Omar Jallow PPP, and Hon. Henry Gomez GPDP, for their commitment to the national cause. Albeit GMC has fundamental philosophical differences from them all, our message is one of cooperation and consultation within, NOT confrontation. Our approaches to politics may differ, but we should share the common goal of providing prosperity for our citizens. This shared objective far exceeds any artificial differences that may be invented by some. However, The Gambia Moral Congress believes that prosperity is not to be measured by wealth or worldly gains alone. There is a higher prosperity — the health of the mind and the spirit and the quest to lead a righteous and sober life.

We believe that leadership is inspiration, not just by example. We cannot demand sacrifice and defiance from our people when we could be found wanting in that regard; when we fail to unite for a common cause, we lost all justification to anticipate loyalty; when we exhibit addiction to Party power for its own sake without giving others opportunity to experiment, we lost our bearing and when we militate against new thinking instead of embracing change, we get swept away by the tide of historical irrelevance. These are vestiges of the failed past, and today, this new Movement spearheads a bold new direction radically different from business as usual.

It is now our time — to confront long term challenges that have been neglected; to restore the balance; to invest in our future; to set a realistic vision for ourselves to become the best educated country, the most skilled economy in the region, and best trained work force in Africa; to build modern infrastructure that lays a platform for future growth, laying the foundations for long term prosperity. This emerging Leadership can get us there with your support, and our enduring values will help set our course for the future, and united by a common hope for our future. We are committed to building a modern competitive economy that competes successfully in the global marketplace for agriculture, resources and services. We believe that our long term prosperity will be at risk if we rely too heavily on one sector of the economy for our economic growth. We believe that in the long term, building a modern competitive economy is the best way of securing good living standards for Gambians. By building long term prosperity, we can also ensure that our Nation will be able to create and sustain high quality public services and a generous safety-net for those in need.

Our commitment to a fair and equitable society is at the foundation of our approach to government. Fairness will be a guiding principle for a GMC government in all aspects of government policy and initiatives, whether dealing with labour matters, access to educational opportunities, justice delivery, entrepreneurial aspirations, health-care or community services. As a Nation, we will be at our best when we can work together for the common good. We believe that governments should play an important role in building stronger relationships at each level of our society. A GMC government will strengthen the strong role played by community organisations in both helping individuals in need and in building a sense of community. We are committed to building communities that embrace cultural diversity — a society that celebrates diversity, tolerates and respects divergent views.

Today, we extend our solidarity to members of The Gambia Labour Union, the Teachers Union, the Transport Union, The Gambia Press Union, the National Union of Gambian Students, the Dock workers, and The Gambia Bar Association. We recognise and accept your rights to organise, collective bargain, and act as responsible interest groups and strategic partners to government. Together with your help, we shall ensure that the right to organise, to belong to a union and to effectively exercise such rights shall be clearly guaranteed by legal provisions, and enforceable by the courts of the land.

Together, we shall make freedom of association, which is currently under siege, truly liberated and relevant. GMC assures you that whenever your rights are threatened, and in consequence if you rise to defend or enforce your rights, we shall rise with you rain, shine, storm or torture. Our Movement’s policy is to treat human rights abuse as a threat to The Gambia’s national security.

Today, above all else, let us applaud the Farmers of The Gambia, the forgotten heroes/heroines and the neglected constituency that comprised the majority of the extreme poor in our Nation, a situation that remains a horrendous scar on the national conscience. GMC government shall, together with your help and support put an end to this dismal and unacceptable phenomenon. This is their struggle too, and the imminent victory shall be theirs as well. It is utterly unacceptable to us that over 85% of Gambians continue to experience very severe economic trauma. We shall issue our Economic Policy Statement in due course as we commit ourselves to seriously fight poverty with single-mindedness.

A GMC government shall empower The Gambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry in its efforts to build formidable indigenous enterprise capacity, innovation in trade expansion, opportunity, wealth creation and corporate compassion. The Gambia ranks very low at Number 165 world-wide Global Index for protecting investors. This is highly unacceptable, and we shall change this ugly image. Lip service is all we have seen.

On this historic occasion, GMC remembers the late Deyda Hydara, a distinguished Patriot I had the privilege of working closely with as a high school student journalist over a decade ago. In this connection, GMC strongly condemns the murder of Mr. Deyda Hydara and demands that the authorities do the right thing, including the attempted murder against my dear friend, the veteran human rights lawyer Mr. Ousman Sillah. A way to sustain the memory and legacy of martyr Deyda Hydara is to demolish the shackles asphyxiating freedom of expression in particular and eliminating conditions upon which impunity thrives.

We pay homage to the late William Dixon-Colley, a pioneering champion of Gambian press freedom and the man whose ideals profoundly influence my approach to politics. We call for the Government’s compliance with the Orders of the ECOWAS COURT and implement the Resolutions of the 44th Ordinary Session of the African Commission on Human Rights, Abuja, regarding journalist Chief Ebrima Manneh, and all other victims of human rights atrocities, such as the Students of April 10 and 11.

Our country should be seen to respect international law as a civilised nation, for only through this would we inspire respect and reciprocity from the international community. This, to us is not a matter of politics, but one of solid principle. If we are seen to be dismantling international commitments and protocols we enter into freely with other nations and multilateral institutions, it is our sovereign integrity that massively suffers, and reflects on Gambians everywhere. This ought to be a matter of serious concern for all Gambians regardless of political inclination. We urge The Gambia Government to comply with international law our Nation agreed to abide by, such as United Nations Charter, International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the protocols of the Ecowas Treaty and the African Union, particularly pertaining to our sovereign obligations on human rights. Our own Constitution, which is the embodiment of our national will, enjoins us to do just that. This is not merely an ordinary Document, it is sacred and sacrosanct.

The Scriptures (Qur’an and the Bible) teach us that God forbade torture for whatever purpose, much less the taking of another life for political reasons. The Qur’an talks about the Day of Judgment, meaning that even God who created Leaders will not condemn mankind without judging them fairly first. That is why as a Faith Nation, we should respect courts of law as Temples of Justice, not to manipulate and abuse them. One cannot seek refuge in his Faith by flouting this Divine instruction and at the same time anticipate no consequences from fellow man or God. No government should be told to treat its people decently, because that is the proper function of any government. When a government is reminded of this obligation, instead of receiving such information with dismissal and contempt, it should be opportunity for introspection and reform.

Democracy is an on-going experiment to produce better circumstances, not to rejoice in the deficiencies of political experiments and failures of political systems as pretext to deride them. Democracy is not the enemy, and should not be prostituted. We believe that human society’s best invention is the political experiment of democracy often represented by the universally acclaimed essential freedoms, now condensed into the single concept of “human rights “. Rather than fear this concept and try to kill its survival, the converse survival instinct of humanity for human rights often prevails to instil fear into those combating the tide of freedom. The fact that dissent is not loud should trouble any good leader, for human history proves that systematic suppression of dissent often ends up in a political volcano.

History has shown that it is impossible to continue to deny active dissent permanently because sooner or later, human nature would find a permanent solution to that problem. The best way is to encourage dialogue and free flow of ideas. Nelson Mandela preaches that a leadership that fears the power of ideas and information would be planting its own inevitable demise. We concur.

Good leaders protect their citizens, not harm them or unleash law enforcement agencies to repress dissent. Gambians are decent people and deserve to be treated with decency. Our Movement hereby extends olive branch solidarity to all, bearing animosity towards none, and we are adamant on the irrevocable conviction that there shall be no negotiation regarding principles on sovereign constants and values. The Gambia will be best placed to confront contemporary challenges if we maintain the best values that have characterised our Nation. Many of these values have been undermined. It is time to restore the balance. We know that the truest measure of a society is the care it provides for those most in need, and the opportunity it provides for every person to realise his or her own potential.

Our Movement will be responsive to genuine engagements with all players in the political process, including the APRC for the exclusive national good, based on:

1. Predetermined, objective, result oriented, ascertainable and openly verifiable principles and actions.

2. Level playing field, transparency and fairness in the electioneering and electoral processes. If the processes leading towards an election are not free and fair, the results of such an election cannot be fair and will not be accepted, and will be rejected by Gambian voters and the international community.

3. Demonstrable commitment to the rule of law, including judicial non-interference with unbridled law enforcement neutrality.

4. Demonstrable commitment to full and sincere implementation of inter-Party agreements, and negotiated principles, MoUs, etc.

We believe that The Gambia belongs to us all equally. If we all genuinely make The Gambia our passion, go to work every day to achieve the means of securing the interests of Gambians, we should be able to forge healthy and spirited debates on issues about the way forward. Our doors shall remain open for consultations and consensus building. The Leadership of our Party has no illusions as to the enormity of the tasks ahead, or as to the likely reaction of our formation from established political ranks. We also know about the predicament of prisoners and detainees or those who graduated from incarceration. We are not trapped by naivety nor could we be lured by false sense of security. We shall remain sharply vigilant at all times.

The Gambia National Congress is about The Gambian people, and belongs to the people. We seek to bring about the urgent change you require, but this can only be done with your support and help. The power to change is in your hands for no government, regardless of how autocratic or brutal it may be, can successfully continue to survive if the people, the citizens in whose hands power lies, take the gauntlet and demand change. You, the people can change and improve your political and economic conditions by voting in a Congress government, and if you do so in sufficient numbers, you shall bring about the change you require. Nelson Mandela again preaches that there are limits even to highly sophisticated or professional vote rigging and voter intimidation during election times, and we know those limits. In The Gambia too, you the citizen voter has the compelling power to influence the political direction no matter how seemingly powerful an individual or system might appear.

Such power is mere illusion because real power is in your hands. You can also support our ground efforts with your financial contributions and other resources.

The awesome power those in government appear to wield is made possible by you. If you the people decide to withdraw your political support, you will easily find that they are powerless without you. It is you Gambian voters and citizens who made them powerful, so real power is yours, and you can demonstrate this power by choosing to join us, vote for us in your largest numbers, fund us, and take part in a new democratic Movement. Believe in yourselves. We invite you to join and vote for our political Movement - The Gambia Moral Congress where you will be truly respected, where your opinions count, where you have equal rights and the power to succeed, and where power truly belongs to you, the peoples. Together, let us steer a bold new direction, reject past political failures and never to be associated with selfish political bickering, and heartily welcome change.

With the power of your ballot, the strength of your numerical superiority, and a new spirit of commitment, together we can bring about the change we require in The Gambia. Together, we can prove that indeed it is possible through patriotic vigilance to invent our future with our votes, and put in place your Congress government. Thank you all, and God Bless the Republic of The Gambia.

Jammeh's witch hunters hit Sintet

By PK Jarju

A large number of elderly men and women from Sintet Village were yesterday arrested and detained in President Jammeh's home village, Kanilai.

The arrest of the elderly villagers is in connection with ongoing nation wide crackdown on alleged witches and wizards.

villagers told me that the witch hunters with the support of Gambian security officers surrounded the Foni village and arrested any village elder they found at home.

Some village elders were reported to have fled the village into Cassamance.

Sources added that the arrested men and women are currently being vetted by the witch hunters.

"The witch hunters give then a concotion to drink which is making witches and wizards to confess to their past activities. Some have already admitted to the killing of certain prominent people in the area," a soldier I will identified as Jalamang (not his real name) told me.

Jalamang added that some of the arrested men and women were released last night and this morning after they were cleared by the witch hunters.

Meanwhile military sources have confirmed earlier newspaper reports about the gruesome murder of Ceesay Jatta in Kanilai.

"Ceesay Jatta of Bujiling was beheaded by the witch hunters who identified him as a local commander of the witches," an officer in Kanilai to told me.

Halifa Sallah detained

by PK Jarju
The Spokesperson of the Opposition National Alliance for Democracy and Development (NADD)has been arrested and detained at the Yundum Police Station.
Halifa Sallah who also serves on the editorial board of Foroyaa Newspaper was arrested on Sunday evening by five police officers of the police Serious Crime Unit.

Although the government is yet to commend on his arrest,reports says his arrest was in connection with his current investigations into the ongoing national witch hunting excercise.

Mr Sallah has over the past few weeks criticised the activities of the which hunters and has urged President Yahya Jammeh's regime to investigate and put a stop to such a barbaric practice.

Annual progress report on Gambia’s poverty reduction

I. OVERVIEW

1. The Gambian authorities completed the 2007 PRSP Annual Progress Report (APR) in October 2008. This is the first APR for the country’s second Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper (PRSP), which covers the years 2007 to 2011.1 The overall strategic priorities of the PRSP are: (i) macroeconomic stability and effective public resource management; (ii) promotion of pro-poor growth and employment through private sector development; (iii) improved basic social services; (iv) strengthened local communities and civil society organizations (CSOs); and (v) mainstreamed multisectoral programs on gender, environment, nutrition, and population. The PRSP incorporates programs focused on the Millenium Development Goals (MDGs).

The APR is complemented by a 2008 report on progress towards the MDGs and a report which analyzes poverty related public expenditures in 2007. The APR analyzes key elements of the PRSP, including macroeconomic performance, public sector reform, real sector performance such as agriculture and tourism, the social sectors and cross-cutting issues such as HIV/AIDS and gender.


2. The 2007 APR was prepared in a participatory and consultative manner. The National Planning Commission (NPC) was created to strengthen the government’s capacity to plan and coordinate government policies, consolidate limited government resources and implement the Paris Declaration on Aid Effectiveness. In particular, the NPC has assumed overall responsibility for the PRSP process and coordinated the preparation of the APR. Consultative workshops and focus group discussions were held on the PRSP APR with representatives of the public and private sectors and civil society.

The NPC is a relatively new organization and therefore would benefit from further strengthening of its capacity. The staffs recommend continued institutionalization of multisectoral and participatory monitoring arrangements.



3. The country’s poverty rates are high and the poor remain highly vulnerable to exogenous shocks. Fifty eight percent of the households are poor, according to the 2003 household expenditure survey which is the latest information available. The authorities are currently preparing to conduct a small scale survey to update the poverty profile. The poor are often rural households with larger families, headed by females and working in the agriculture and fishing industries. Although the economy has enjoyed robust growth in the past few years, there are concerns that this growth was concentrated in sectors such as telecommunication and tourism which could have had limited impact on the poor. The issue will be further analyzed through an ongoing Poverty Assessment exercise.

II. STRATEGIC PRIORITIES, RISKS AND CHALLENGES

4. The APR correctly points out that macroeconomic performance has been strong in the recent past, exemplified by robust growth and relatively low inflation. However, the current global economic slowdown is likely to adversely affect growth in The Gambia and widen the external current account deficit by slowing down tourism and remittances. In addition to the impact of the global economic slowdown, re-export trade appears to be contracting as the country’s regional comparative advantages deteriorate and foreign direct investment is projected to level off after rising sharply in recent years.

As a result, real GDP growth is projected to decline to 4.6 percent in 2009 from 5.9 percent in 2008. Given the expected slowdown in economic activity and indications of weakening government revenues, staffs encourage the government to continue prudent macroeconomic policies and provide a growth-friendly environment. The staffs support the government’s policy of limiting domestic borrowing in order to reduce the large domestic public debt.


5. The staffs recommend that future APRs pay more attention to external debt sustainability issues. The authorities need to focus on improving the management of external debt in light of the recent Debt Sustainability Analysis (DSA) which indicates continued high risk of debt distress. Export diversification and finding new sources of growth will be critical given the decline of the country’s traditional strengths as a regional trading hub.



6. The staffs support government efforts to increase budgetary resources to poverty reducing expenditures. Preliminary budget outturn data indicate that PRSP related expenditures as a share of total Government Local Funds (excluding interest payments) declined from 2002 to 2005, in particular due to sharply increasing debt service payments. Recognizing this to be an important fiscal challenge, the authorities reduced domestic borrowing and received substantial external debt relief when the country reached HIPC completion point in December 200.

As a result, preliminary data indicate that the share of PRSP related expenditures in the budget outturn have been gradually increasing. Moreover, the share of PRSP expenditures in budget allocations have increased in 2009 compared to 2008. It will be critical that the budget outturns reflect the increased budgetary allocations.


7. After having had some success with public expenditure management reforms, ensuring their sustainability is the next critical challenge. There have been steady improvements of the budgeting process, including by revising the budget classification, integrating the recurrent and development expenditures, developing sectoral policies and expenditure reviews and reducing the backlog in public accounts.

APR notes the impact that the introduction of the Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS) has had on improving public expenditure management and monitoring of PRSP related expenditures. IFMIS currently processes all central government transactions and produces public accounts and fiscal reports in a relatively timely manner.

In order to ensure its sustainability, the staffs recommend that the authorities adequately fund the recurrent costs of the system, identified in the government’s IFMIS Sustainability Plan, and build local capacity by carrying out recruitment and training of Treasury staffs within a government-wide manpower plan.



8. Strengthening human resource management will be critical to the success of the ongoing civil service reforms. The ongoing civil service reforms are critical to building public sector capacity.

The APR highlights the need to increase civil service compensation in order to improve recruitment and retention of qualified personnel. While addressing low salaries will be important, it will not by itself necessarily result in improved performance and public service delivery. Thus, staffs recommend that the authorities also focus on complementary reforms to strengthen staff assessment, performance management and overall manpower planning. The latter is critical given that there is evidence that the civil service significantly expanded in recent years and its rate of expansion was not immediately apparent due to shortcomings in centralized management and monitoring. Sustained political commitment for the implementation of the civil service reform program will be essential to the success of the reforms.

9. The APR highlights the importance of the agricultural sector but the analysis is hampered by a lack of specificity in the sector strategy and priority policies. The agriculture sector, where most of the poor are engaged, has been performing relatively poorly in recent years, although crop productions rebounded in 2008 due to comparatively good rainfalls. A major constraint has been the lack of policy clarity, continuity and predictability. Therefore, the staffs recommend refining the policies and programs in the agriculture sector through the development of a comprehensive and cohesive agriculture sector strategy which identifies priority interventions and emphasizes export diversification and private sector development.

Staffs also recommend that the impact of existing investment projects be comprehensively assessed in order to provide a basis for determining priority interventions and that the sector’s institutional environment be stabilized as frequent changes of policies, personnel and institutions have undermined performance. Improved performance will likely require greater allocation of resources for recurrent expenditures.


10. Implementation of the government’s groundnut sector reform Roadmap will be a priority pro-poor agenda. The APR does not provide a comprehensive analysis of the status of implementation of this critical sector which has traditionally accounted for over 70 percent of domestically produced exports. Groundnut farmers are the largest group among the poor. However, the groundnut sector has been undermined by a dysfunctional marketing arrangement in recent years. Unlike the agriculture sector as a whole, the groundnut sector benefits from having a sector reform strategy, the Roadmap prepared in 2007. The Roadmap emphasizes open competition based on a minimum producer price, divesting the Government-owned Gambia Groundnut Corporation (GGC) which is the main formal marketing and processing channel, improving access to agricultural production inputs and establishing a quality control system.

Timely implementation of the Roadmap is expected to significantly contribute to alleviating poverty among the groundnut farmers by revitalizing the sector and providing a reliable and timely market for groundnuts. It will be critical to promote private investments in the sector, in particular by providing a level playing field in which no investor is given preferential treatment. The staffs recommend that implementation of the Roadmap be accelerated and be further developed with respect to improving access to inputs and extension services and strengthening institutional capacity of key public and private stakeholders, including producer associations. Any adverse social distributional impact of the reforms should be monitored and adequately addressed.

11. The staffs believe that stronger efforts are needed to ensure a greater focus on improving economic governance so as to promote private sector-led growth. Reforms of economic governance would enhance the country’s competitiveness, help attract foreign investments and make the country more resilient to external shocks such as the current global economic slowdown.

In this context, of particular importance are: (i) greater protection of contractual rights and respect for legal due process; (ii) the use of open and competitive bidding process for divestiture of public enterprises and sale of major licenses, such as for telecommunication; and (iii) strengthening of the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) through the provision of adequate resources and enhancement of its independence and mandate. Building on improved economic governance, the authorities could address the poor availability and high cost of finance, lack of access to land and the multiplicity of taxes and government fees which aggregate to a significant burden. Finally, the staffs recommend consolidating the investment laws and overhauling the discretionary duty exemption system.



12. Although the MDG goal of halving poverty is unlikely to be met, the APR notes the relatively good progress made in indicators on universal primary education and gender parity. Major government initiatives have benefited from support from donors and the EFA-FTI. With relative improvements in access, the next key challenges are to improve the quality of school instructions and educational outcomes given the high failure rates in standardized tests.

For the health sector, the staffs recommend that public resources be focused on primary services and preventive care. Improving health outcomes will depend on the ability of the government to provide adequate recurrent resources to the health facilities, particularly health professionals and drugs. For both the health and education sectors, the use of mandatory rotations as well as the current incentive programs could be considered for rural placement of staffs. The staffs also recommend that the expansion of school and health facilities be on a sustainable basis by taking into account the capacity of the government to provide for the recurrent costs.

13. The APR highlights the importance of addressing HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis. Malaria remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality and is particularly a problem for pregnant women and children under five years. The staffs recommend a comprehensive assessment of malaria as well as tuberculosis and strengthening of disease surveillance and response capacity at all levels.

The latest sero-surveillance data indicate that HIV-1 prevalence doubled from 1.4 percent in 2002 to 2.8 percent in 2006. The prevalence of HIV among young women and men aged 15-24 has tripled from 0.8 percent to 2.4 percent during the same period, and only 8.8 percent of people with advanced HIV infection and 14.1 percent of HIV positive pregnant women receive antiretroviral therapy. Therefore, it will be critical to use the recently approved Global Fund to expand the availability of HIV/AIDS programs, including educational outreach to reduce further infections.. The government could also consider reestablishing the posts of divisional coordinators of the National HIV/AIDS Secretariat (NAS) in order to strengthen its regional presence.

14. The main risks to achieving PRSP objectives include the impact of external shocks, insufficient prioritization and weak capacity. The global economic slowdown is expected to reduce the country’s economic growth and government revenues. Declining government revenues could put pressure on resources allocated to PRSP related expenditures. Given reduced overall resources, it will be critical to reallocate funds to PRSP priority activities, prioritize within PRSP priority activities as necessary, and ensure that these funds are used efficiently and effectively.

In this context, the impact of existing and planned projects could be comprehensively assessed. Continued public sector capacity building reforms, particularly the civil service reforms, are critical to mitigating the risks of low capacity. A credible, transparent and predictable policy environment which supports private investments will be critical to building the country’s capacity to withstand external shocks.

III. KEY IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES

15.Improving the monitoring and evaluation of the PRSP program remains an important challenge. Relatively little information is provided in the APR’s results matrix on achievement of the 2007 targets apart from the macroeconomic indicators. However, the 2007 MDG Status Report and the 2007 Poverty Reducing Expenditure Report provided complementary information for the monitoring of PRSP objectives. The staffs recommend that these reports be prepared annually and that their main findings be reflected in the APR. The staffs also recommend refining the PRSP policies and target output and outcome indicators in order to make them more specific and concrete.

In particular, agriculture, governance and cross-cutting issues, such as gender and environment, appear to lack cohesive and well defined policies and target indicators. The refinement of policies would provide an opportunity to review government priorities, critical given the sizable funding gap identified in the PRSP. Prioritizing will be even more critical in light of the projected decline in government revenues as a result of the impact of the global economic slowdown.

16. Improving the quality and timeliness of data, particularly economic statistics, is needed to improve program monitoring. Once survey field works are conducted, there are often significant lags until the data become available. Archiving and dissemination of data remain relatively weak. The authorities have made major efforts to build institutional capacity through the enactment of the Statistics Act (2005) and the subsequent establishment of the Statistic Council and the Gambia Bureau of Statistics (GBOS).

The staffs recommend prioritizing the implementation of the government’s “Strategic Plan for the Development of Statistics in The Gambia: 2008-11,” which focus on continued structural reforms and capacity building of GBOS. In particular, the staffs support the Strategic Plan’s proposal for a “performance contract” for GBOS which would be used to hold it accountable for improved data quality and availability.

17. The PRSP highlights the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) as a means to further deepen the integration of PRSP priorities with the budget. However, its adoption would be feasible only if there can be a credible commitment to future sectoral budgetary allocations. As the initial steps towards eventually adopting a MTEF, the staffs recommend that major sectors improve their annual budget submissions by incorporating target output and outcome indicators linked to their proposed expenditures.

Departments of State (ministries) which already have sectoral policies and public expenditure reviews would use them to derive their PRSP performance indicators. Sectoral policies and expenditure reviews could be gradually expanded to the remaining Departments. As the sectoral policies are refined, the budget codes which identify PRSP related expenditures can be revised to ensure that they reflect the new policies.


18. Strengthened governance remains a priority for the PRSP implementation. International observers generally agree that the country’s oversight institutions and the opposition media are weak. Strengthened governance would enhance the transparency and accountability of the public sector and reduce the risk of policy slippages. The PRSP has been prepared in an open, transparent and participatory manner in order to promote country ownership and a government that is responsive to the needs of the poor. Free dissemination of information and an independent media would support such an approach.



19. Implementation of the recommendations of the previous JSAN has been mixed. As recommended, the authorities maintained prudent macroeconomic policies, achieved the completion point triggers for the HIPC program, prepared a groundnut sector reform strategy, strengthened the governance of the Central Bank and developed a civil service reform strategy focused on pay and human management reforms. Some of the recommendations are being implemented on an ongoing basis, including for education and health. Regarding the recommendation on the investment climate, the authorities currently are collaborating with IDA on an ongoing Investment Climate Assessment (ICA) and preparing a new Growth and Competitiveness Project for addressing some of the identified shortcomings.

Although recommended, there have been less success in developing a agriculture sector strategy beyond the groundnut sector, preparing an implementation and sensitization program for decentralization, improving the management of the electricity utility and PURA, and further prioritizing the PRSP and refining the performance indicators.

IV. CONCLUSION
20. The staffs believe that the progress report provides an adequate assessment of PRSP implementation for 2007. As detailed in the report, progress was made in the implementation of the PRSP. Macroeconomic stability and real growth was maintained, public financial management was strengthened and progress was made in the key social sectors. By contrast, progress has been relatively slow with regards to agricultural reforms and decentralization, and there could be a greater emphasis on governance, including economic governance, and the groundnuts sector reforms. PRSP monitoring improved with the complementary reports on MDGs and poverty related public expenditures but the PRSP target outcome and output indicators would benefit from further refinement. Since 2007, the country has had to deal with sharply increasing import prices and the impact of the ongoing global economic slowdown. It is critical that the country maintains its commitment to the PRSP program in the midst of these new challenges.


21. Priority areas identified by staffs for strengthening the implementation of the PRSP include: (i) developing a comprehensive agricultural sector strategy; (ii) prioritizing improvement of governance; and (iii) refining PRSP performance indicators.


Note: The Annual Progress Report for The Gambia was prepared jointly by the staffs of the World Bank and the IMF and distributed with the member country’s Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper Annual Progress Report to the Executive Boards of the two institutions. The report which is approved by by Emilio Sacerdoti and Dominique Desruelle of the IMF and Obiageli K. Ezekwesili of the International Development Association (IDA) seeks to provide focused, frank, and constructive feedback to the country on progress in implementing its Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS).

DALASI AND BUTUT:Dalasi Strengthens against Greenback....

Trading on the currency market of the Gambia saw the local currency strengthen against the greenback on both the interbank and the forex market.

On the interbank market, the local currency gained 10 bututs against the dollar and was quoted at D25.75 and registered a 5 butut swell against the pound to D37.15. Against the Euro and the CFA Francs, the Dalasi lost D2.32 while appreciating by D2.50 and was quoted at D35.45 and D255 respectively. On the parallel market, the local currency chalked a 70 butut appreciation against the greenback and was quoted at D25.25.


The Dalasi also improved by 25 bututs against the pound to close at D36.75 but depreciated by 50 bututs against the Euro and was quoted at D34.50. Against the CFA Francs, the Dalasi gained 25 bututs and closed
the week at D259.


On the international trading market, the US Dollar gained 0.70 per cent and was quoted at $1.42 but lost 0.79 per cent against the Euro and was quoted at $1.27. The Yen depreciated against the Dollar by 5.83 per cent and was quoted at $97.43.



Dalasi Inter-Bank Mid Exchange Rates

USD 25.75
UKP 37.15
Euro 35.45
CFA 255.00

Dalasi Forex Bureau Mid Exchange Rates
USD 25.25
UKP 36.75
Euro 36.75
CFA 258.50

91-Day Bill Gains…

Instruments traded on the floor of the central bank of the Gambia moved in opposite directions this week. The 91-Day Bill gained a basis point from 11.21 per cent and was quoted at 11.25 per cent while the 91-Day Sukuk- Salam Bill dipped by 3 basis points and is currently quoted at 11.10 per cent.

The 182-Day lost 15 basis points and was quoted at 12.61 per cent. The Bill was previously quoted at 12.76 per cent. The longer bench of the market witnessed a 9 basis point contraction in the level of the 1-Year Note. The note was quoted at 14.33 per cent after being quoted at 14.24 per cent a week ago.

Databank Securities Ltd

Gambia's food prices on the increase

The National Consumer Price Basket saw a marginal 2.9 per cent increase the Consumer Price Inflation from 6.8 per cent at the end of December 08 to 7 per cent at the end of January 09 according to recent data released by the Gambia Bureau of Statistics.

At the end of January 2009, CPI for some West African economies remained in double digits. Ghana’s CPI stood at 19.86 per cent while CPI in Nigeria and Sierra Leone is currently 14.03 per cent and 13.21 per cent respectively. Evidently, most economies in the sub-region had missed the single-digit target at the end of December 2008.


In Gambia, food prices continued to dictate the increase in the national price basket. On a year-on-year basis, food prices accelerated from 8.61 per cent in Dec 08 to 8.81 per cent at the end of Jan 09. This compares unfavourably with a decline from 9.45 per cent at the end of Jan 07 to 8.61 per cent in Jan 08.

On a month-on-month basis, food prices increased by 0.24 per cent at the end of Jan 09 from a marginal 0.05 per cent at the end of Dec 08. Non-food prices recorded a 4.77 per cent budge from 1.32 per cent at the end of January 08 (y/y); comparing negatively with a 4.33 per cent swell from 2.14 per cent at the end of Jan 08 and Jan 07 respectively. Month-on-month figures saw Non-food prices for Jan 09 inch-up to 0.42per cent from 0.24 per cent from 0.04 per cent at the end of Jan Dec 08 and Dec 07 respectively.

Outlook


The inch-up in the Consumer Price Inflation from 6.8 per cent at the end of Dec 08 to 7 per cent at the end of Jan 09 has been largely as a result of scanty increases in food prices though the strength of the Dalasi has provided some insulation to avert a protracted sharp increase.

The 2009 Budget Summary has highlighted a single digit inflationary target. Consequently, we maintain that the move towards the safeguarding, if not reducing the current single-digit inflation of seven (7) per cent remains attainable.

However, in the conduct of both monetary and fiscal policy, there is the need for the Central Bank to maintain a highly disciplined approach. Given the current global downturn, care must be taken in order not to expose the national price basket to the hikes in global food prices; no matter how inevitable such exposures may be. We are confident that the CPI (y/y) for February 09 will see a minor decline.

This isagainst the back drop of gains in the Dalasi against its major trading currencies; particularly the Dollar. In the event of this, import costs should ease down and transmit some downward revision in both food and non-food prices.

Gambian human rights lawyer urges cooperation in the arrest of al Bashir

A founding member of the Banjul-based human rights body, the Foundation for Legal Aid Research (FLARE), on Wednesday called on countries that are signatories to the instrument that established the International Criminal Court (ICC) to cooperate with the International Tribunal and arrest Sudanese President, Omar al Bashir.

Almami Taal, the FLARE coordinator, said the warrant issued by the ICC on Wednesday for the arrest of President al Bashir was long over due. He said issues affecting the African continent are not seriously taken up by continental bodies, therefore he said the ICC should be a non-compromising and fearless advocate against leaders that are committing human rights violations against their own people.

He remarked, “I really believe that the era of accountability in the criminal justice area should be about bringing to account the leaders at the highest level.”

The human rights lawyer said most of the criminal activities that happen within borders or across borders in Africa are dealt with quite effectively; adding that there are a lot of instruments in respect of money laundering, drug trafficking and other white coloured crimes.

“But when it comes to human rights violations, crimes against humanity and crimes of genocide, there has been very little continental or trans-border instruments and processes that could actualize human rights for all in the continent,” he said.

He continued, “So the ICC issuing an arrest warrant against al Bashir cannot come at a better time; because people like al Bashir should be tried openly and before an international tribunal so that their crimes against their own people could have a chance of being punished.”

Taal further stated that when prosecutors at the ICC started the process against al Bashir, there has been a lot of talk in Africa that only Africans are subjected to this type of procedure. But he was quick to add that such a claim is rubbish, adding that everyone was happy when Radavan Karadvic was arrested after several years of indictment by the Court. Therefore, he said this process should not be seen as targeting Africans.

Courtesy of APA

PK's BEEF:An insult to Gambians

Recent media reports of witch hunters forcefully entering people’s homes and detaining them in Kotu on suspicion of being witches and wizards is indeed and insult to Gambian men and women.

I first thought the stories were untrue. I thought they were untrue because I never imagined that a government in its right sense will hire a group of weirdoes from another country, provide them with military escort and give them 100 per cent backing to go round innocent people’s houses and mistreat them for being witches and wizards.

The action of these witch hunters is criminal as it goes against the provisions of the 1997 constitution and other laws of the country. And I will advise anyone who has been forcefully arrested, detained or mistreated in any way by this group of weirdoes to take them to court.

What type of nonsense is this and for how long shall the Gambian people continue to sit and allow the APRC government of Yahya Jammeh to treat us any how it wants without giving a monkey to the laws of the land? If Jammeh's government cannot provide us a decent standard of living, let it give us the freedom to live happily in our homes.

I have never believed and will never believe that there exists another breed of humans that fly on a broom in the darkness of night to eat their fellow human beings.

I asked myself what is the motive for hiring these witch hunters? Is Jammeh trying to expose his insecurity or showing his madness to the people. What ever the reason, Jammeh can never convince me that he is truely fit to govern the Gambian people.

The Islamic religion we all pride ourselves to be followers clearly tells us that backbiters are the only witches. And unless it wants to be seen as hypocrites, the Jammeh regime should without delay order an immediate stop to the activities of these witch hunters.

In this 21st century, it is very insulting to see the hard earn resources of the Gambian people being wasted so ridiculously in a so called fight against witches and wizards.

The people who were targeted by these weirdoes must be badly traumatised and I have no doubt in my mind that many of them will be stigmatised by their communities and families. These innocent people will never recover from this trauma and may even visit the land of see me no more before their time is up.

Jammeh have to understand that what is killing the Gambian people is not witches and wizard. What is killing the Gambian people is diseases and poverty. And no matter how much he tries he can never divert people’s attentions to the current hardships they are going through as a result of his incompetence and failures.


A waste of resources

The jailing of four Daily Observer printers for stealing 200 copies of the company was is indeed a waste of our resources.

The men who were first subjected to a trial by the media, pleaded guilty to the charge of theft. And instead of issuing a fine or community orders, the magistrate decided to sent them to the already overcrowded Mile Two Prisons.

Don't get me wrong, am not in anyway condoning what the men did, but I think as first offenders a jail term is too harsh. The men will be eligible for release in a month’s time and the Gambian people are going to pay for their feeding and upkeep while in prison.

Mile Two Prisons should not be used as a punishment centre. Rather, it should be used as a correction centre and if our Magistrates think they are being tough on people petty thiefs by sending them to Mile Two, then let them think again.

Our Mile Two Prisons is overcrowded and magistrates should start issuing fines and community orders to first time offenders found guilty of committing minor offences so as to save the government money.

A welcome development
As I write my column for this week, the International Criminal Court (ICC) have issued an international arrest warrant for the Sudanese president Omar al-Bashir on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity.

President Al- Bashir who is the first ever sitting president to be indicted by the international court is suspected of being criminally responsible for “intentionally directing attacks against an important part of the civilian population of Darfur, murdering, exterminating, raping, torturing and forcefully transferring larger numbers of civilians and pillaging their properties.”

While I welcome the indictment of Mr Al-Bashir, the ICC should not only focus its attention on war crimes committed in Africa. It should go further by investigating crimes committed in Iraq, Afghanistan as well as recent events in Gaza, Palestine and prosecute those responsible.

Crimes committed against innocent civilian populations must never go unpunished and the indictment of Mr Al-Bashir will sent a clear message to all those murder happy leaders who think that they can order the killing of thousands of people and go to sleep.

Wishing you all a great weekend.

DALASI AND BUTUT

with Databank Securities Ltd
The Gambia ’s local currency posted a mixed performance on both the interbank and parallel markets this week. On the interbank market, the local currency was stable against the dollar at D25.85 and moved up by 55 bututs against the Pound at D36.65.

The Dalasi also appreciated by 13 bututs against the pound and was quoted at D33while improving by D5

against the CFA francs to close the week at D252.50. On the parallel market however, the Dalasi was re-rated downwards by 22 bututs and was quoted at D26.17 but gained 42 bututs against the pound to close at D36.58.

Against the Euro and the CFA Francs, the local currency appreciated by 50 bututs but lost D1.25 and was quoted at D33.50 and D260 respectively.

On the international currency market, the US Dollar gained against the British Pound but lost value to the Euro and the Yen. The greenback chalked a 0.70 per cent gain against the pound to close at $1.42 but shaved off 0.79 per cent against the Euro to $1.27 and lost 6.23 per cent of its previously quoted rate against the Yen. The Dollar is currently quoted at $97.85 against the Japanese Yen.


Dalasi Inter-Bank Mid Exchange Rates

USD 25.85

UKP 36.65

Euro 33.00

CFA 252.50

Dalasi Forex Bureau Mid Exchange Rates

USD 26.17

UKP 36.58

Euro 33.50

CFA 260.00



Instruments Move South….

Trading on the money market of the central bank of the Gambia witnessed declines in all traded instruments except for the 91-Day Sukuk- Salami Bill. The Bill remained pegged at 11.13 per cent.

The 91-Day Bill moved south by 20 basis point from a previous quoted level of 11.44 per cent and is currently quoted at 11.24 per cent while the 182-Day Bill slashed 69 basis points off its value was quoted at 12.76 per cent .

The longer end of the market saw a downward revision of 77 basis points in the level of the 1-Year Note. The 1-Year Note was quoted at 14.24 per cent but was quoted at a much higher level of 14.53 per cent a week ago.

Toronto FC signs Gambian defenders

Toronto FC signed Gambian defenders Emmanuel Gomez and Amadou Sanyang, the Major league Soccer club announced on Tuesday.

"Both these players are great young talents and have a huge future ahead of them," TFC manager and director of soccer Mo Johnston said. "Gomez is very good in the air, has very good speed and is an outstanding young center back. Amadou has great ability as well; he's very talented and will be a great asset for many years to come. We are delighted to have them both on board."

Sanyang, 17, will not be able to become a full member of the Toronto FC senior squad until his 18th birthday. Until that time the defender will train with both the senior team and TFC Academy and be able to play matches for the Academy. He turns 18 Aug. 1.

Gomez, 18, will arrive in Canada following the completion of all international transfer and immigration procedures. As per league and team policy, financial details were not announced.
Courtesy of The Sports Network

Observer Anchorman Removed

The deputy managing director of the Daily Observer Newspaper is reported to have been removed from his post, authoritative sources told AllGambian.


Andrew P DaCosta was said to have been sacked last Friday in a letter signed by Momodou Sanyang, chairperson of the company's board.


Daily Observer insiders told AllGambian that no reason (s) was stated by the board for his removal.


"After indicating its regrets to remove him, the letter asked him to surrender his office keys, company car and any other company item in his possession to his managing director, Neneh MacDouall-Gaye," an insider told this paper.


A former senior banker with the International Bank for Commerce, (IBC) Andrew DaCosta joined the Observer as financial controller in the late 1990s. He was made deputy managing director and financial controller in 2000 and have been highly credited for keeping the company's finance afloat.


A devout Catholic, Mr DaCosta is regarded as a hard working man who has the interest of the Observer at heart.


Until his removal, Mr DaCosta has served as deputy to seven managing directors of the Observer namely; Sariang Ceesay, Buba Baldeh, Sheriff Bojang, Momodou Sanyang, Saja Taal, Dida Halake and Neneh MacDouall-Gaye.

US Slams Gambia's Human Rights Record

by PK Jarju, Birmingham, UK

The US government have severely criticise the APRC regime of President Yahya Jammeh over its treatment and lack of respect to the rights and liberties of Gambians.
In its 2008 annual Human Rights, and Labour Report, released on Wednesday, the US State Department stated that over the past year, the Jammeh regime has committed many human rights abuses with impunity thereby creating a more restrictive environment for Gambians in the country.

Quoting a recent Amnesty International report, the State Department says the Jammeh regime's respect for the human rights of its citizens did not improve during 2008 and that human rights situation have worsen since a foiled coup attempt in March 2006.
" Although the constitution and law provide for protection of most human rights, there were problems in many areas. Prison conditions remained poor, resulting in deaths. Arbitrary arrests and detentions, often without warrants, continued. Security forces harassed and mistreated detainees, prisoners, opposition members, and journalists with impunity. Prisoners were held incommunicado, faced prolonged pretrial detention, held without charge, denied access to families and lawyers, and were tortured and denied due process. The government restricted freedom of speech and press through intimidation, detention, and restrictive legislation. Women experienced violence and discrimination, and female genital mutilation (FGM) remained a problem. Child labour and trafficking in persons also were problems," the report stated.

Prison Conditions
The State Department noted that conditions of the Gambia's prisons do not generally meet international standards and the government refused visits by independent human rights observers to detainees and prisoners connected to matters considered politically sensitive.

"Local jails were overcrowded, and inmates, including detainees awaiting trial, occasionally slept on the floor. Inmates complained of mistreatment by guards, poor sanitation, and inadequate nutrition, and often relied upon outside sources of food, which was allowed prior to conviction. Prison guards were reluctant to intervene in fights between prisoners, which resulted in injuries," the report added.

It further stated that despite attempts by prison officials to improve prisoners' nutrition and well-being during the year, there were unconfirmed reports of deaths of prisoners at the Mile 2 Prison due to poor diet, health, and living conditions.

Arbitrary Arrest or Detention
The State Department said although the Gambian constitution and law prohibit arbitrary arrest and detention, there were numerous instances of police and security forces arbitrarily arresting and detaining citizens.

It added that many people were arrested without warrants and detained beyond the legal 72-hours. It cited the cases of Businessman Alhaji Banta Kaira, Dodou Jobe, NIA financial director, Bakary Gassama, Lamin Marong and Ebrima Marong, Pastor Gideon A. Adeoye among others as an example.

Denial of Fair Public Trial
The State Department said although the Gambian constitution and law provide for an independent judiciary, in practise the courts, particularly at the lower levels, were corrupt and at times subject to executive pressure. It noted that during the year the president have removed three High Court judges without even consulting the Judicial Service Commission (JSC).

"Judges presiding over "sensitive" cases and who made decisions not considered favourable to the government risked being fired. On July 10, newly appointed High Court Judge B.Y Camara was dismissed, but later reinstated, without explanation, but unconfirmed reports stated his firing was linked to his handling of the trial of foreign fugitive Christopher Badjie. Also on July 10, Justice Haddy Roche, who in previous years made decisions not favourable to the government, was dismissed from her job without explanation. She was later reinstated as the presiding judge at the Commercial Division of the High Court. On September 11, Justice Naa-Ceesay Sallah-Wadda of the High Court in Banjul, was dismissed without explanation. Her firing was reportedly related to her decision to grant bail to British mining engineer Charles Northfield, who was arrested on February 12 when the mining license of his employer, Carnegie Minerals, was withdrawn. In late August Northfield jumped bail and fled to the United Kingdom. Justice Sallah-Wadda was also reinstated in her job," the report stated.

Political Prisoners and Detainees
The State Department said during the year, there were credible reports that the government held civilians based on their political views or associations and that some were held incommunicado for prolonged periods. It added that unlike the previous year, there were no reports that the government arrested and detained opposition members who publicly criticised or who expressed views in disagreement with the government.

Freedom of Speech and Press
The State Department said although the Gambian constitution and law provide for freedom of speech and of the press, the government limited these rights by intimidation, detention, and restrictive legislation.

It added that the deterioration of the Gambian media environment continued during the year and that the government harassed journalists who wrote articles it considered inaccurate or investigated cases it considered sensitive. As a result, the report said several journalists reportedly went into hiding out of fear of government retaliation.

Women and Children
The State Department said domestic violence, including spousal abuse, was a widespread problem; however, it was under reported due to the stigma surrounding such violence. It added that police considered reported incidents to be domestic issues outside of their jurisdiction. The report also said traditional views of women's roles have resulted in extensive societal discrimination in education and employment.

It added that Gambian laws do not prohibit female genital mutilation (FGM) and as a result the practise remained widespread. It said between 60 and 90 percent of women have undergone FGM, and seven of the nine major ethnic groups reportedly practised it at ages varying from shortly after birth until age 16.

Drop the bogus charges against Pap Saine

The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and its regional body the Federation of African Journalists (FAJ) yesterday called on President Yahya Jammeh and his government to drop what it calls 'bogus charges' against Pap Saine, editor and co- proprietor of The Point Newspaper, with immediate effect and to desist from the continued intimidation of the Gambian press.

In a press release issued yesterday, Gabriel Baglo, Director of the IFJ Africa office says: “The sequence of events concerning the editor of The Point Newspaper is a clear indication of systematic harassment and intimidation that is directed at crippling the paper and gagging press freedom. It seems that the Gambian authorities have specifically targeted the Point Newspaper, which is presently, the only independent daily in the country, in order to silence dissent views.”

On Monday February 2, Pap Saine was arrested and detained for eight hours and was eventually released on bail. He was later charged with the “publication of false information” and had already appeared in court. Pap Saine was later rearrested and questioned about his citizenship by the authorities. He appeared in court yesterday and today under this new charge and his case has been adjourned to March 11.

According the Gambia Press Union, “Initially, Mr Saine was brought before the Courts charged with one count of false publication in reference to a story captioned Arrested Gambian Diplomat now at Mile II. Reappearing today [Wednesday], a second count of false publication was added to the charge sheet for a story on its January 30th issue captioned Three Gambian Diplomats recalled. Saine is also due to reappear at the Banjul Magistrates Court (10kms away) the same day, at midday on a trial in relation to his citizenship.”

It could be recalled that in 2005 Pap Saine was arrested with two of his colleagues, by the authorities and his citizenship was also questioned. He was later cleared by the same authorities that are today once again questioning his citizenship.

Saine is now appearing in court for two different cases and the Gambia Press Union has expressed concern that the government is vengefully exploring possibilities to nail him down, even after bestowing a media award to him recently.

The IFJ calls on the Government of Yahya Jammeh to drop the bogus charges against Pap Saine with immediate effect and to desist from the continued intimidation of the Gambian press.

Gamcel to be sold

by PK Jarju, Birmingham, UK

Gambia's secretary of state for Finance and Economic Affairs have revealed that the Gambia government is planning to sell a huge chunk of its shares in the Gambia Telecommucations Cellular Company Limited (Gamcel).

Mousa Gibril Bala-Gaye made this revelation in a recent letter to Dominique Strauss-Kahn, managing director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

In the letter, Mr Gaye said the Gambia government will be offering a significant portion of its shares in the Gambia Telecommucations Cellular Company Limited [Gamcel] for sale.

Mr Gaye however, did not give any reason as to why the government is wanting to part with a huge portion of its shares in one of the most profitable public enterprise in the country

Gamcel was established by incorporation on November 16, 2000, as a limited liability company under the company’s Act of 1955. It is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Gambia Telecommunication Company (GAMTEL).

It began commenced business earnest on May 25, 2001 when the GSM network was launched, replacing the outdated analogue network (TACS) and has since being making huge profits.

Apart from 2007, Gamcel have registered huge profits year after year and have pumped millions of Dalasis into the country's economy.

In 2004, the company made a turnover of D313 million an increase in revenue of D39.6 million registered in 2003.

In 2005, it registered a total operating profit, before tax of D240.3 million, which, compared to the corresponding period as at end 2004, show an increase of D70.5 million, representing an increase of 41.49 percent.

In 2007, the company made a profit before tax of D163 million, a decrease of D79 million or 48 per cent over 2006.

In a similar development, Secretary of State Gaye revealed that the Gambia government have received US$28 million out of US$35 million from Spectrum Group, which bought 50 per cent shares of Gamtel/Gamcel in November 2007. He added that the said amount was received before government terminated the partnership agreement with Spectrum Group and negotiations are ongoing between the two parties for the settlement of the outstanding US$6.5 million

Gambia gets more financial assistance from IMF

The executive board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has completed the fourth review of the Gambia's economic performance under a three-year Poverty Reduction and Growth Facility (PRGF) arrangement, and approved an increase in financial assistance under the arrangement in an amount equivalent to SDR 6.215 million (about US$ 9.2 million) to help mitigate the impact of the global slowdown.

According to a press release from the IMF, the completion of the review allows for the immediate disbursement of an amount equivalent to SDR 5.11 million (about US$7.5 million)—including SDR 3.11 million (about US$4.6 million) from the augmented amount, bringing total disbursements under the arrangement to SDR 13.11 million (about US$19.3 million).

The press release added that the IMF executive board have also approved the authorities' request to waive the nonobservance of the fiscal basic balance performance criterion, and to modify quantitative performance criteria for end-March 2009.

The PRGF arrangement for The Gambia was approved on February 21, 2007 for an amount of SDR 14 million (about US$20.7 million).

Following the executive board's discussion, Murilo Portugal, deputy managing director and acting chair, said: "The Gambian authorities are to be commended for the satisfactory implementation of their PRGF-supported program and their commitment to prudent economic policies, which have contributed to robust growth and moderate inflation. Nevertheless, The Gambia has not been spared from the effects of the global economic crisis, with international reserves declining and the current account deficit widening as a result primarily of reduced income from tourism and remittances.

"The authorities remain committed to achieving sustained growth and poverty reduction by maintaining fiscal discipline, reducing the still high debt level, and promoting private sector development. The authorities will increase the share of budgetary resources allocated to poverty reduction, in line with the priorities of their poverty reduction strategy, and in order to make faster progress toward achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The authorities intend to review the system of investment incentives to improve the climate for private investment while maintaining fiscal prudence.

"Fiscal policy is being strengthened to ensure long-term fiscal sustainability. The authorities have appropriately scaled back their expenditure plans to partially compensate for the contraction of revenues. They have also maintained the retail prices of petroleum products at current levels to allow for some recovery in government revenues. Going forward, it will be important to improve the revenue base, rationalize taxation, better align the budget with PRSP priorities, and further strengthen public financial management.

"The commitment of the Central Bank of the Gambia (CBG) to maintain a monetary policy designed to keep inflation at single-digit levels is commendable. The authorities are appropriately planning to rebuild international reserves in order to provide a stronger buffer against adverse external developments, and the augmentation of access under the PRGF arrangement will provide helpful support in this regard.

"The Gambia remains at high risk of debt distress, even after receiving HIPC and MDRI debt relief, due to high levels of debt in relation to exports and vulnerability to external shocks. It is important to expedite the formulation of a national debt strategy to guide government borrowing decisions and ensure long-term sustainability. As much as possible, there should be reliance on grants to finance the country's development programs," Mr. Portugal said.

The PRGF is the IMF's concessional facility for low-income countries. PRGF-supported programs are based on country-owned poverty reduction strategies adopted in a participatory process involving civil society and development partners and articulated in the country's Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper. This is intended to ensure that PRGF-supported programs are consistent with a comprehensive framework for macroeconomic, structural, and social policies to foster growth and reduce poverty. PRGF loans carry an annual interest rate of 0.5 percent and are repayable over 10 years with a 5½ -year grace period on principal payments.

Time for Change

Coming into existence of the Gambia Moral Congress (GMC) is a welcome development in our country’s democratisation.

Many like me know Mr Fatty as intelligent, hard working and enthusiastic person. There is no doubt that he will give Jammeh and the APRC a good run for their money in the coming months and years. That is if he commits hundred and ten per cent effort.
All Gambians know that President Yahya Jammeh and his AFPRC/APRC government have failed the Gambian people woefully. Jammeh has brought nothing meaningful to the Gambia except retrogression, hardship, and endless sufferings epitomised by skyrocketing prices of basic commodities.

Despite being in power for more than 14 years, the regime is unable to provide a good standard of living for the average Gambian 59 per cent of whom continue to be born in poverty, grow up in poverty and disgracefully die in abject poverty.

Jammeh is a brutal dictator, who has no respect for rights and freedoms of the citizenry. Gross human rights violations are being committed left, right and centre by men in uniform with the blessings of the president against the civilian population they swore to protect. The Gambian people are today living in a state of fear resulting in a situation where they are afraid of their ruler instead of the leader serving them.

Gambian people are fed up with Jammeh. They are tired of waking up everyday and seeing their president getting fatter and fatter at their expense while they suffer with starvation and malnutrition. They are sick of being unable to meet the rising costs of living while the president and his associates divert public tax money for flamboyant life styles. They are tired of being held to ransom by a president who is being paid from their taxes. They are sick of seeing a president who does not have their interest at heart. They hate a president who wastes millions of Gambian Dalasi to feed exotic animals in his Kanilai zoo while the population cannot afford a decent three squared meals. They hate to see a president who treats them like kids and swears Billahi Wallahi Tallahi at them.

Gambian people are looking for change but for the past many years, they lack a real leader to lead them out of this political madness. Frustration and bitterness of the Gambian people towards the Jammeh regime can be felt and seen in our streets, work places, ghettos, everywhere- and anger is brewing just beneath the surface. They just need a capable leader to drill the brewing anger out through the polls.

Current opposition leadership in the country looks out of touch with the people and does not have an idea how to win an election. Politically, the opposition don't pose any threat to Jammeh.

Some opposition parties are all hiding in their shells and running their private businesses. They are not providing effective alternative to the people.

You log on your computer or open your newspaper everyday hoping to see them selling their party polices and programmes. You expect to see them speak against the thuggish regime of Yahya Jammeh, the sufferings and hardship of the people among other pertinent issues. Yet they are nowhere to be seen.

The more they remain silent about issues affecting the country, the more ordinary Gambians become frustrated. Of course the more Jammeh maintains a firm grip on the reins of power.

One of the greatest weapons Jammeh is using against Gambian people is FEAR. Knowing that we are peace loving people, he employs all sorts of scare mongering tactics to harass and intimidate us into believing that he is indeed the Chosen One. He portrays himself as the only one who can guarantee peace and stability in the country and that without him the Gambia will be engulfed in flames. Funnily, many people have bought that idea forgetting that the Gambia has been a very peaceful country even before Yahya Jammeh was born.

Inactiveness of the opposition has made many Gambians to lose confidence in democracy. Many believe is Jammeh can never be removed through the ballot box. The opposition is doing little or nothing to give Gambian people hope.

Gambia Moral Congress (GMC) can make a real difference if it chooses being a party that is truly committed in freeing enslaved Gambians. It should learn from past mistakes of other opposition parties. Instead of waiting until 2011, they should start a massive familiarisation tour and hold political rallies in every town and village in the country selling the idea of change to the grass-root.

They should start talking to anyone and everybody will listen about how Jammeh has been bad for the Gambia and bad for them. Gambian people are very aware of the hardships they are going through. A well coordinated political engineering will surely yield the much needed changes for our country.

Local organising committees should be established in all towns and divisions mandated with the responsibilities of conducting monthly meetings as well as delivering the message of change. This will give hope to people and to let them know they being opposition does not mean they hate the Gambia. They have to differentiate between Yahya Jammeh and the Gambia. The people need to be told that the country does not belong to Jammeh and that while Jammeh as and individual will be history, whether today, tomorrow or day after, the Gambia which as home to 1.5 million people will remain forever until the end of time.

This may seem very difficult because of the harassment of opposition supporters by the NIA and police. However a determined and strong body can make huge difference.

However, the GMC should also bear in mind that there is no easy walk to freedom and success. They will be folding the sleeves against a brutal dictator, who regards himself as god and wants everyone to worship him. Therefore, they should be prepared to pass through the valley of the shadow of death again and again before they reach the mountain tops of their desires.

The GMC membership must also know that their struggle to salvage the Gambia will be a very bitter one. Some of them will be arrested and charged with sedition, arbitrarily detained, or killed. They will be terrorised by Jammeh's security officers in an effort to deter their progress. A possible good advice for them is that, they should never lose focus. The more determination and courage they display in their match, the more members they will have to flush Jammeh out. They should always remember that the labour power of the Gambian people is a force, which when fully tapped can bring about the much needed changes in our land of birth.

For comments, write to papak196@yahoo.co.uk or info@allgambian.net