He made the remarks during an ongoing nationwide tour of military deployments.
“I am aware that many of you use social media. Let me be crystal clear: Unauthorised disclosure of GAF operational, administrative, or internal matters is a serious breach of discipline,” Maj. Gen. Gomez said. “This institution has a Directorate of Press and Public Relations. They speak for the GAF, not your personal accounts.”
“Do not post about our movements, our operations, or our internal affairs. Violators will face severe consequences. Your loyalty is measured by your silence and discretion, not by your likes and shares,” he added.
The tour is designed to enable the CDS to articulate his vision and hold direct dialogue with troops to get first-hand information on their working and living conditions.
It also provides an opportunity to meet representatives of sister security services, community and religious leaders, and other stakeholders to discuss sustaining peace.
Maj. Gen. Gomez was accompanied by a high-level delegation including the Commander of the Gambia National Army, Brigadier General Yaya Drammeh, and other senior officers.
This is the CDS’s first official tour of formations since his appointment. It aims to assess readiness, restore officer confidence, and reaffirm that “the GAF is one family — from Defence Headquarters to the last man on guard duty.”
“Whether you are securing the borders, maintaining stability in communities, standing vigilant as a sentry, or upholding the elite standards of the Battalion, your service matters,” he told troops.
“The nation is watching, and I am here to ensure you succeed. We operate from behind our desks in Banjul, and you operate on the ground, in the trenches, on our waters, and within our civilian communities. We are duty-bound to create the enabling environment for you to execute your duties to the highest standard.”
Maj. Gen. Gomez announced that the first consignment of new digital camouflage uniforms has arrived. GAF Ordnance has begun issuing them with blood group and Gambian flag badges.
A second consignment including combat boots and other kit is in process. He said every member of the GAF will receive a complete set, with a second pair to follow once the next consignment arrives.
On career progression, he said hard work will be rewarded. He has directed that promotion boards be convened soon for deserving officers and soldiers.
“If you have served with distinction and discipline, your time will come. However, due to the structure of ranks, vacancies are limited,” he said. The Directorates of Administration and Human Resources and of Plans and Policy are working to manage careers and standardise retention policy.
To ease mobility challenges ahead of elections, he said 10 new patrol vehicles will be provided to enhance rapid response to any security situation.
