Speaking at a ceremony marking the promotion of 312 soldiers of the Gambia National Army (GNA) held at the Yundum Barracks, Brigadier General Njie said: “Let me strongly urge all troops under my command to continue to exercise patriotism, sense of responsibility and belonging and above all loyalty to the Government of the day and the Gambian people.
‘This brings me to the importance of fostering good civil-military relations (CMR). It is vital to note that Gambians established the GAF to protect the territorial integrity of the country and ensure internal security.”
The former State Guard Commander said further: “Therefore, to carry out this constitutional mandate effectively, a friendly CMR is of utmost importance. While a healthy CMR enables the GNA to take part in national development activities, it will also contribute towards the removal of all atmospheres of apprehension and mistrust between the military and our civilian counterparts.”
The GNA Commander went on: “As we have emerged from a political system in which some personnel of the Armed Forces soiled the good relationship we used to have with the civilian population, it is the desire of my command to engage in activities that seek to promote a culture of understanding and cooperation with all civil actors within our area of responsibility. It is largely through this way that we can regain the confidence and respect of the Gambian people.
“Furthermore, let me remind you about the GAF position on partisan politics. Since the change of government, GAF has made significant strides to remove the military from politics and also remove politics from the military. These gains must be strengthened because politics is beyond the scope of our competence and therefore involvement in it will only result in the erosion in military professionalism and loss of confidence and respect.”
Politicians, Brigadier General Njie added, have very good militants to carry out their political activities. “What they need from the armed and security services is to provide a secure environment for them to operate. So, I strongly urge you to avoid all forms of politicking as members of GAF,” he advised.
He further said: “It is my desire to see a paradigm shift in the administration, command and operational effectiveness of the GNA during my tenure as the Army Commander. I have coined a clear vision for the GNA as contained in my Training Directive - The Army Commander’s Vision - which is to transform the GNA into a well-trained, well-led and highly motivated force capable of defending the nation against all threats - has the broad objectives of enhancing effectiveness, improving proficiency and promoting team building and unit cohesion.”
Referring to his well thought-out training guide for fellow soldiers, the GNA Commander said: “I have designed a comprehensive Training Directive for the GNA for the first time in decades. The Training Directive, to be implemented this year, will witness the conduct of training activities relevant to carry out our constitutional mandate. As planned, it will culminate into a major field training exercise towards the end of this year. I therefore enjoin all of you to take this initiative with the seriousness it deserves.”
Concluding, he said: “While promotions in the armed forces are a privilege, it is also an important motivation tool for boosting troop’s morale. However, let me add that it also comes with higher responsibilities, and I therefore enjoin the newly decorated soldiers to be more diligent, committed and accountable in the discharge of their duties as well as in their interactions with their colleagues and civilians.
