The crackdown comes in response to increasing concerns over behaviour on and off duty, highlighted by a record of accidents and damage to state property, signaling a new era of accountability.
“I am not sure if there is an existing policy on this, but we will no longer tolerate reckless driving. If a soldier is found guilty, they will be charged for the damages. Equally, soldiers will be relieved of their duties if seen commenting or associating with partisans on social media," Commander Njie stated, reflecting the growing worries regarding accidents involving GAF drivers and inappropriate comments made on social media.
Supporting the commander's statement, Chief of Defence Staff General Mamat O.A. Cham highlights the importance to preserve and not misusing what belongs to the government as well as the Armed Forces.
“I would like to emphasise the statement made by the commander of the Gambia Army. We must manage our resources effectively to ensure they are used for their intended purpose. The recent accident we have experienced represents a waste of valuable resources and the loss of our colleagues,” stressed CDS Cham.
He further noted that if a driver is found guilty of reckless driving, both the driver and the responsible officer will be held accountable and will be required to pay for the damages and any related charges.
CDS Cham stressed the importance of soldiers avoiding partisan conflicts and remaining committed to their principles of upholding democratic values while protecting the lives and properties of the citizens. “The Gambia Armed Forces remain apolitical, serving the entire nation without engaging in partisan politics. Soldiers are expected to obey lawful orders through the chain of command, reject illegal directives, and uphold democratic principles by protecting elected governments after elections, as well as the public,” Cham expressed.
General Cham also declared that recent claims about the ECOMIG forces control the State House are baseless.
“The State Guard is predominantly composed of Gambians (80%) and is led by a Gambian colonel, with ECOMIG providing supportive, not dominant, assistance. Our cooperation with ECOWAS enhances regional security and sovereignty, demonstrated by standby forces that help maintain stability without undermining national control,” he stated.
CDS Cham emphasised that ECOWAS’s mission aligns with their peacekeeping commitments, referencing past deployments in Sudan and passed role in Sierra Leone conflict.
“We urge the public to disregard divisive narratives. Our forces prioritise accountability, civilian democracy, and Gambian sovereignty. We are not subordinates but proud contributors to regional and national peace,” CDS Cham concluded.
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