Speaking on the programme Bitilo, Gibba argued that the deployment of Senegalese soldiers has contributed to insecurity and disrupted education, agriculture, and livelihoods in the border communities.
He questioned whether the troops are part of the ECOWAS Mission in The Gambia (ECOMIG), noting that their activities appear inconsistent with the mission’s stated objectives.
“What we know, this ECOMIG is for the first family. That is President Barrow and his family. That is what we know. If they have any other reasons, let them give it to us,” Gibba said.
The lawmaker also recalled the 2017 killing of Haruna Jatta in Kanilai, claiming that then-ECOMIG Commander Colonel Njie had clarified that Senegalese soldiers operating in Foni were not part of ECOMIG, and had directed questions about the incident to President Adama Barrow.
Gibba further stressed that the continued presence of Senegalese troops has negatively impacted education in the region, citing the postponement of Grade 9 examinations due to conflict along the Gambia-Senegal border. He added that farming activities have also been disrupted, worsening the livelihoods of residents.
His remarks underscore ongoing tensions between local communities and foreign forces, and highlight calls for the Gambian government to provide clarity on the role of Senegalese troops in Foni.
