“More concerning is that the President of the nation and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces has not come out to assure Gambians or to condemn this act,” Mr Bensouda said.

He argued that the government’s silence had only heightened public concern, stressing that moments of national uncertainty demand clear and decisive leadership.

According to Mr Bensouda, while The Gambia and Senegal have enjoyed a longstanding partnership,that relationship should never come at the expense of the country’s sovereignty.

“We are partners with the Senegalese, but we have our own country, but this is what happens when you outsource your security and energy; nations don’t take you seriously.”

The UNITE Party leader said President Barrow should draw a red line by making it clear that any action perceived as violating Gambian sovereignty is unacceptable, irrespective of the ties between the two neighbouring countries.

Mr Bensouda also linked the reported incident to the wider political debate ahead of The Gambia’s 2026 presidential election, saying the polls would provide citizens with an opportunity to judge how national leaders respond to matters affecting security and sovereignty.

He questioned whether Gambians wanted a commander-in-chief who remained silent at a time when citizens were worried about their personal safety and the country’s territorial integrity.

MrBensouda further argued that The Gambia needs leadership that prioritises stronger energy, food and border security, maintaining that these sectors are critical to safeguarding the country’s independence and securing its long-term stability.

He said the reported incident should serve as a reminder that protecting national sovereignty remains one of the primary responsibilities of the country’s leadership.

GMC’s position

The Gambia Moral Congress (GMC) has issued a strong condemnation of the events at the Bulock Military Border Post on July 16, describing the actions of Senegalese forces as a “grave and provocative act” against Gambian sovereignty.

In a statement signed by Party Leader Mai Ahmad Fatty, the GMC rejected Senegal’s explanation that the demolition of a Gambian Armed Forces perimeter installation was rooted in unresolved border concerns. The party insisted that such grievances must be addressed through established bilateral mechanisms, not unilateral military action.

“No nation negotiates its sovereignty,” the statement declared. “A grievance nursed for years is an argument for urgent recourse to the Joint Military Committee and other diplomatic channels. It is not, under any recognised principle of international law, a licence for one state to unilaterally alter facts on the ground inside another state’s sovereign territory.”

The GMC commended the Gambian Armed Forces for their discipline and professionalism in the face of provocation, and praised the government’s composed handling of the incident. However, the party stressed that restraint should not be mistaken for weakness.

“Senegal should take no comfort from Gambian restraint,” the statement continued. “It is an invitation to correct course through legitimate means, extended once, in good faith.”

The party urged President Adama Barrow to raise the matter directly with Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye at the upcoming ECOWAS Summit, warning that tolerating such incursions would set a dangerous precedent for the region.

 “A precedent tolerated quietly in Bulock today is a precedent available to be repeated, against The Gambia or any other member state, tomorrow,” the GMC cautioned.

The statement concluded with a reaffirmation of the party’s “full and unwavering support for the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of the Republic of The Gambia”.

Hon. Bah is accompanied by Permanent Secretary Ndey Marie Njie, Governor Ousman Bojang of the West Coast Region, Governor Lamin Saidykhan of the North Bank Region, and Bernard Mendy, Director of the American Division at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad.

The delegation is being supported by The Gambia’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations under the leadership of Ambassador Lamin Dibba, with the assistance of Deputy Head of Mission Fatou Njie Hydara, Counsellor Binta Jeng, Defence Attaché Colonel Alagie Sanneh and other mission staff.

The high-level meeting serves as a critical platform for governments to evaluate the implementation of the New Urban Agenda, review achievements and challenges since its adoption, and renew political commitments aimed at accelerating sustainable urban transformation. Discussions are also focused on identifying practical actions that will help countries create cities that are more inclusive, environmentally sustainable and economically resilient.

The summit has attracted 148 participants representing UN Member States, international organisations, development partners and civil society organisations, providing an opportunity to exchange best practices, strengthen international partnerships and mobilise collective action to address rapid urbanisation and its associated challenges.

The Gambia’s participation reflects the government’s continued commitment to promoting well-planned human settlements that are safe, inclusive and capable of supporting sustainable economic growth. It also demonstrates the country’s determination to align its national development agenda with the objectives of the New Urban Agenda and the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

As urban populations continue to grow across Africa, the meeting is expected to strengthen global cooperation and encourage countries to adopt innovative approaches to housing, infrastructure, land management, environmental protection and climate resilience.

For The Gambia, participation in the high-level review offers an opportunity to strengthen partnerships, attract technical support and share national experiences while reaffirming its resolve to ensure that urban development leaves no one behind and contributes to improving the quality of life for all citizens.

The New Urban Agenda is a global framework adopted by UN Member States in 2016 to guide sustainable urbanisation by promoting equitable access to housing, efficient land use, climate resilience, economic opportunities and improved living conditions for present and future generations.

However, Sanna Manjang’s Lawyer Counsel S.K. Jobe objected to the amendment, arguing that the State should not be allowed to change the charges in the middle of the trial.

Counsel Jobe submitted that the state initially filed a two-count indictment for murder in January 2026. He said in March 2026, the charges were expanded to six counts before later being reduced to four counts.

With the further amended information dated 16 July 2026, the Prosecution now sought to replace the remaining murder charges with two assault charges.

Counsel Jobe argued that the successive amendments did not amount to legitimate prosecutorial corrections but rather reflected “a calculated strategy” after the Prosecution failed to produce sufficient evidence to prove the murder charges. He advanced two principal arguments against the amendment.

Counsel Jobe further submitted that since the Prosecution closed its case on the existing indictment without seeking an amendment, a no-case-to-answer submission on the murder charges would likely have succeeded, potentially resulting in the accused’s acquittal on those counts.

Counsel Jobe argued that by allowing the amendment at such a late stage - after the Defence had prepared to contest the murder allegations and several witnesses had already testified - the Court would effectively deprive the accused of the opportunity to seek dismissal of the murder charges for lack of sufficient evidence.

Counsel Jobe told the court that Sanna Manjang spent nearly seven months in detention largely because of the seriousness of the murder charges.

Allowing those charges to be withdrawn at the close of the Prosecution’s case would, Counsel Jobe believes, would undermine Sanna Manjang’s legitimate expectations and amount to an injustice.

Counsel Jobe cited Section 218 of the Criminal Procedure Act, 2025, which he submitted governs amendments to charges in criminal proceedings.

It is Counsel Jobe’s submission that amendments are permissible only where the statutory conditions are met and where they do not prejudice the accused. He then urged the Court to reject the State’s application and proceed with the existing indictment.

Counsel Jobe also submitted that it was improper for the Prosecution to continue making amendments at this stage of the proceedings and urged the court to reject the further amended charges.

In response, Dougan cited Section 85 of the Constitution, arguing that it empowers the Director of Public Prosecution to institute and undertake criminal proceedings, including amending charges where necessary based on the available evidence.

Dougan asserted that the amendment was made “in the interest of justice” and that the Defence would still have the opportunity to recall witnesses for further cross-examination, if necessary.

Dougan also argued that the Defence’s reliance on Section 218 of the Criminal Procedure Act was misplaced because the amendment was initiated by the Prosecution and not directed by the Court. She submitted that the Prosecution’s constitutional powers under Section 85 governed the amendment.

In reply, Counsel Jobe argued that the prosecutorial powers granted under the Constitution are not absolute and remain subject to judicial oversight to ensure fairness to an accused person. He reiterated that Section 218 is the applicable provision governing amendments to charges in criminal proceedings and urged the Court to refuse the Prosecution’s application.

In her ruling, Hon. Justice Sidi .K. Jobarteh held that the Prosecution has the legal right to amend charges at any stage of the trial, as provided for under the Criminal Procedure Act, 2025.

Hon. Justice Jobarteh further ruled that the conditions set out under Section 218 of the Criminal Procedure Act had been satisfied and that allowing the amendment would not prejudice the accused.

Hon. Justice Jobarteh held that the further amended information had been properly filed and served on the Defence, adding that the Court could not disregard a document that was regularly before it merely because no separate formal application for amendment had been made.

Hon. Justice Jobarteh consequently overruled the Defence’s objection and directed that the accused take his plea on the amended charges.

Sanna Manjang then pleaded not guilty to the assault charges.

Dougan then informed the Court that the Prosecution was closing its case against Sanna Manjang. Counsel Jobe then told the court that he was not informed by the state that they intended to close their case.

Counsel Jobe then made an oral application for bail, arguing that following the amendment, the accused now faced only two counts of assault causing bodily harm, which are bailable offences.

However, Dougan requested that the bail application be made formally in writing rather than orally. Justice Jobarteh granted the request.

Counsel Jobe also informed the Court that the Defence intended to file a no-case-to-answer submission and would not be opening its defence.

The matter was adjourned till 28 July 2026.

Re: The Gambia Government Statement on The Bulock Military Camp Border Incident

The Gambia Government expresses its deep concern over the unfortunate incident that occurred on Thursday afternoon 16th July, 2026, at the Bulock Military Border Post, West Coast Region involving members of the Senegalese Armed Forces.

The Government confirms that a section of the perimeter fence of a Gambia Armed Forces military installation was demolished without prior consultation through the established bilateral military and diplomatic mechanisms that have long guided cooperation between our two sister countries.

While The Gambia considers this action profoundly provocative and totally unacceptable, the Government remains fully committed to resolving the matter peacefully through dialogue and the existing Joint Military Committee and other bilateral channels. A formal diplomatic engagement with the Government of Senegal is already underway.

The Government wishes to reassure the Gambian public, members of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps and residents of The Gambia, that there is no need for panic as the security situation remains calm and fully under control. Throughout the incident, Personnel of The Gambia Armed Forces acted with exemplary professionalism and restraint, preventing any potential escalation.

Significantly, the Governments of The Gambia and Senegal have enjoyed decades of close fraternal cooperation, friendship and shared responsibility for regional peace and stability. Only recently, both Heads of State reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations through enhanced cooperation in Defence, Security, Trade, Border Management and Economic Development. It is in that same spirit that this unfortunate incident will be addressed.

Accordingly, The Gambia Government calls on the Senegalese Armed Forces to exercise maximum restraint and to ensure that any future concerns relating to the common border are addressed exclusively through the established bilateral mechanisms and in full respect of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of both States.

The Government is confident that through mutual respect, constructive dialogue and the

longstanding friendship between our two nations, this matter will be resolved swiftly andamicably. The Government further urges all Gambians to remain calm, refrain from speculation, and allow the ongoing diplomatic process to reach a peaceful conclusion.

Signed,

Ebrima G. Sankareh

Press Dispatch from the Office of The Gambia Government Spokesperson

17 July 2026

Despite sustained discussions at the highest level and long-standing negotiations, these exchanges have not, to date, resulted in a clear commitment towards achieving a lasting resolution of the outstanding border issues.

It is within this context that the incident of 16 July 2026 should be understood. It should not be interpreted as reflecting any intention on the part of Senegal to undermine the sovereignty of the Republic of The Gambia or the excellent relations between the two countries. Rather, it forms part of a border situation that now calls for a prompt and lasting solution.

The Government of the Republic of Senegal remains fully committed to resolving this matter peacefully through dialogue, consultation, and the exclusive use of existing bilateral mechanisms and appropriate diplomatic channels.

“Our continuous commitment to supporting the healthcare services of The Gambia is a fundamental ethical obligation to the well-being of our society,” Mr Ndow noted. 

He further explained that Africmed’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that access to quality medical services is essential for improving healthcare, reducing disparities, and fostering a healthier society.

Chief Medical Director of the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital (EFSTH), Dr Mustapha Bittaye, urged the students to make the best use of the knowledge they have acquired, stressing that their contribution will be vital to strengthening healthcare delivery in The Gambia.

Meanwhile, Jalamang Jammeh, President of the University of The Gambia Medical Students’ Association (UNIGAMSA), commended Africmed International Hospital for its consistent support. He also expressed gratitude to faculty staff for their dedication and commitment to nurturing future doctors. 

Mr Jammeh assured that the knowledge gained by the students will be put to good use for the well-being of the medical school and the betterment of the nation.

The White Coat ceremony, a symbolic rite of passage for medical students worldwide, continues to serve as a reminder of the responsibility and ethical standards expected of future healthcare professionals in The Gambia.

The agreement, signed on behalf of the two Directors General of Customs, represents one of the most significant bilateral customs cooperation initiatives in recent years, following commitments made by Presidents Adama Barrow of The Gambia and BassirouDiomaye Faye of Senegal to improve cross-border trade and security.

Among the key decisions reached at the two-day meeting is the installation of the GAINDE Customs System at all major border posts, including Karang, KeurAyib and Selety, within the next three months.

The two administrations also agreed to deploy the SIGMAT electronic transit system, which will enable real-time monitoring of goods in transit, improve transparency and reduce delays along the transport corridor.

A major outcome of the meeting was the decision to completely eliminate the double escorting of transit goods along the Wellingara Corridor, a long-standing concern raised by transporters and traders due to the additional costs and delays it created.

Officials further resolved to abolish the use of transit agents at border crossings by introducing the Single Administrative Document (SAD) for transit goods, a move expected to simplify customs procedures and enhance efficiency.

To strengthen operational cooperation, the two customs administrations agreed to conduct joint border operations every three months, while committing to exchange customs data electronically through an Application Programming Interface (API) once the GAINDE system becomes fully operational.

The meeting also endorsed the reactivation of EnCen, a platform dedicated to intelligence and information sharing between the two customs services to combat smuggling, fraud and other cross-border crimes.

Delivering remarks on behalf of the Commissioner General of the Gambia Revenue Authority, Alhagie K. Mbye, Commissioner of Customs, described the meeting as a critical milestone in implementing the directives of the two Heads of State.

“It is my honour and privilege to welcome you to this second Monitoring Committee Meeting between our two neighbouring countries,” he said.

He noted that the meeting followed the commitment made by the two Presidents and the Directors General of Customs to work jointly in addressing challenges along their common border.

“Their shared vision calls upon our institutions to strengthen collaboration, resolve outstanding border issues through dialogue, and create an environment that promotes secure borders, facilitates legitimate trade, and supports the free movement of people and goods in accordance with our respective laws,” he stated.

Commissioner Mbye recalled that GRA Commissioner General Yankuba Darboe, during the recent Presidential Council meeting in Dakar, stressed the need for both customs administrations to decisively remove all customs-related impediments along their shared corridors.

“The time has come for our two Customs administrations to act decisively to bring to rest all Customs-related impediments along our corridors,” he said, adding that this could only be achieved through concrete action, closer cooperation and clear implementation measures.

He emphasised that customs administrations have a central role in translating the political commitment of the two Heads of State into practical and measurable results through coordinated border management, intelligence sharing and regular engagement.

Expressing confidence in the outcome of the meeting, Mbye said the discussions would produce practical solutions that would strengthen bilateral cooperation while improving border efficiency, trade facilitation and regional economic integration.

The resolutions adopted during the meeting will now be implemented over the next three months, with both customs administrations expected to monitor progress against the agreed roadmap before their next review meeting.

The initiative forms part of the government’s broader drive towards a cashless economy, enhanced transparency and greater efficiency in public finance management.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Deputy Accountant General for Accounting and Reporting, Clara Saine Mendy, described the partnership as another milestone in the country’s ongoing Public Financial Management (PFM) reform agenda.

She said government has spent years building an integrated digital payment system and welcomed SUTURA as a strategic partner that would further strengthen the platform.

“This journey started several years ago, and today you are joining an initiative that is already transforming the way government collects revenue,” she said.

According to her, the collaboration is not only about introducing another payment channel but about ensuring that citizens can access government services more conveniently while enabling government to optimise domestic revenue mobilisation.

She disclosed that several commercial banks and other payment channels have already been integrated into the system, adding that SUTURA’s inclusion would further broaden access and improve service delivery.

“The expectation is that all partners will work collaboratively to ensure the platform delivers maximum efficiency. We have already seen the dividends of digital payments, particularly in making tax payments easier for customers. Your coming on board will add value to what already exists and strengthen government’s capacity to collect resources efficiently and on time,” she stated.

Mendy further emphasised that the partnership reflects corporate responsibility and national commitment to supporting development through innovation, urging all parties to fully implement the provisions contained in the MoU.

Representing the Managing Director of GAMPOST, Head of Finance Samba Ceesay said the postal corporation shares government’s vision of bringing public services closer to citizens.

“Our mandate is to ensure financial services reach people at their doorsteps. By working together with the Accountant General, Nifty ICT Solutions and SUTURA, we will support government’s efforts to improve revenue collection while accelerating digitalisation and promoting a cashless society,” he said.

He noted that the partnership aligns with GAMPOST’s broader objective of expanding financial inclusion and ensuring that government services become more accessible to communities across the country.

Managing Director of Nifty ICT Solutions, Jalamang Jobarteh, said the company remains committed to developing innovative digital solutions that improve financial transactions and public service delivery.

“Our objective has always been to innovate continuously in digital technology. This partnership places us at the centre of supporting government in delivering efficient financial services to Gambians. Excellence is our guiding principle, and we are committed to continuously improving our technology to serve the country better,” he said.

He assured the Office of the Accountant General of the company’s full cooperation in implementing the agreement.

SUTURA is a home-grown digital payment platform designed to facilitate secure electronic financial transactions and enable users to pay for government and private sector services through multiple payment channels. Developed by Nifty ICT Solutions in partnership with GAMPOST, the platform supports government’s digital transformation agenda by improving payment convenience, expanding financial inclusion and enhancing accountability in public revenue collection.

The latest partnership is expected to strengthen The Gambia’s ongoing efforts to modernise public finance management, reduce reliance on cash transactions and improve domestic revenue mobilisation through secure and accessible digital payment systems.