Issue No. 101/2007, 29 – 30 August 2007
Editorial
Is the Government Functioning as a Government?
No Press Conference on Gamtel/Gamcel!
A government is run by a cabinet. Section 72 of the Constitution states that
“The Vice President and Secretaries of State shall be responsible for such
Departments of State or other business of the government as the president may
assign to them. In making assignments, the president should have regard to
the desirability of ensuring that such responsibilities are entrusted to
competent persons with relevant qualifications and experience.”
A government is run by Secretaries of State or ministers with relevant
qualifications and experience who exercise direction and control over Departments
of States.
The state Radio and TV made announcements that Gamtel has been driven to
near bankruptcy and is compelled to sell shares to be able to deliver better and
sustainable services.
Nobody has heard that the divestiture programme for Gamtel has undergone
review to completion point and that there is recommendation for its shares to be
determined and sold. No one is clear how much the shares have been sold for
and where they have been tendered for sale.
Many doubts have been raised by the Radio announcements and questions are
being raised which any transparent and accountable government would be anxious
to answer.
We have recommended for the SoS for Information to call a press conference
to shed light on the concerns but to no avail.
We again wish to reemphasise that unless the Secretary of State convenes a
press conference to clarify the issue the public will continue to raise
eyebrows and the National Assembly will be expected to conduct an enquiry into the
sale to determine whether it complies with the law and that it satisfies
economy review which should guarantee money for value.
A functioning government will always be transparent and accountable. Its
members will never be hesitant in holding press conferences to clarify burning
issues. Any government which falls short of this functions, like a private
enterprise instead of a public service. Such a government is not qualified to
head a sovereign Republic.
158 Gambians Stranded in Cape Verde
By Fabakary B. Ceesay
One hundred and fifty eight (158) Gambian youths who have risked their lives
and traversed across the Atlantic Ocean in a local makeshift boat with the
hope of reaching the Spanish Island of Canary, have found themselves at the
Cape Verde Islands.
Three youths, who spoke to this reporter on the condition of anonymity, said
they boarded a boat at one of the Coastal Villages in Kombo with ten
Ghanaians as their captains, and navigators. They said they have travelled for nine
days and nights without spotting their proposed destination of Canary Island.
They explained that the captain who commanded the boat stirred the boat to
an unknown destination which took them to Cape Verde. They asserted that they
were manhandled by the Cape Verdean Security Agents. The trio complained that
they were detained in a tiny police cell. They said they were kept in that
cell for almost two weeks and little food was given to them. They said they
were later transferred to Praia, where they were kept at a military barrack.
According to the three returnees, they spent one month and three days in
detention in Cape Verde. They indicated that they were flown back home Via Senegal
on Wednesday 22 August. They added that they were screened by the Immigration
personnel at the airport upon their arrival. They said the majority of them
are still in detention in Cape Verde. They said only ten of them are flown
back together and that the rest remain in Cape Verde.
Court Remands 21 Repatriated Youths
By Fabakary B. Ceesay
Twenty one Gambian youths who were deported from the Canary Island on 24
July, have re-appeared before Principal Magistrate Moses Richards of the
Kanifing Magistrates Court on Wednesday 22 August 2007.
The twenty one deportees, who were without legal representation, were
whisked into the congested courtroom by personnel of the police Intervention Unit
who were armed to the teeth. The police prosecutor, Inspector Amadou Keita
made an application to the court for an adjournment, submitting that the
principal prosecution witness is absence. The application was granted. The twenty
one youths have maintained their plea of not guilty and they were denied bail
by the court for the second time. During their first appearance, the
magistrate told the prosecutor that if they fail to proceed with the case on the next
adjourned date, he would discharge the accused persons. But on 22 August, he
sent them to remand at mile two prisons, for the second time.
The twenty one Gambian youths are standing trial for allegedly assembling at
a public place in a manner that can breach the peace; that they were using
abusive language against the president, which can also tantamount to the
breach of peace.
In Pirang Land Dispute Trial
Station Officer Testifies
By Modou Jonga
The trial involving the 14 residents of Pirang and the state proceeded on
Tuesday 28 August, 2007 at the Brikama Magistrates’ Court with the testimony of
Abraham Jawara Demba, the station officer of the Brikama Police Station. The
accused persons are charged with criminal trespass and willful damage to the
property of Mr. M.G Fielder.
When the case was called, prosecutor 1320 Bojang who held brief for ASP
Camara stood up and said that Camara is on a mission at the police headquarters,
but told the court that he is resolve to proceed.
At that juncture, Lawyer Borry Touray stood up to announce his
representation for all the accused persons. He applied for the court to grant him an
adjournment to enable him to consult his clients and take instructions on the
basis that it is the first time he is meeting his clients. The presiding
magistrate ruled against the application by the defence counsel.
In his testimony, the Station Officer recalled that while he was at the said
police station on 28 July, 2007, he received a phone call from the Governor
of Western Region, Abdou Badjie who told him that the accused persons in
Pirang have entered into a plot of land belonging to GPFZA (Gambia Promotion and
Free Zones Agency) which is leased to one white man and that grass was
planted on the land; that the grass is use to feed the latter’s animals, but the
accused persons sow maize on the said plot of land.
The witness said upon receiving this information, he together with the
governor, the officer commanding the area and some police officers, left for the
scene.
Testifying further, the witness said upon arrival at the scene, the accused
persons were arrested and brought to the Brikama Police Station. According to
the witness, the statements of all the accused persons were obtained.
After his testimony in evidence in chief, Lawyer Touray asserted that he
could not cross examined the witness at that moment because he has no
instructions and chance to interview his clients. He urged the court to grant him
reasonable time to consult his clients.
The presiding magistrate later ruled that the case is adjourned to Wednesday
12 September 2007. The magistrate urged the witness to appear in court on
the next adjourned date for him to be cross-examined by the defence.
GAMCOT Owes Farmers
By Lamin Fatty
Following a local newspaper report which have it that Angry Cotton Farmers
in Niamina, Wuli, Kantora, Jimara and Fuladu have indicated that they are
going to take drastic measures against Gamcot for failing to settle moneys owed
them by the aforesaid institution, this reporter investigated the matter.
In an interview with one Alpha Bah a prominent cotton farmer, who doubles as
the president of the Cotton Growers Association (COGA) Mr. Bah said as far
as he is concerned, farmers have not decided to take drastic measures against
Gamcot. He said he is not aware of any such action. According to Mr. Bah,
Gamcot should pay farmers but remarked that confrontation with Gamcot will only
make things worse. He recalled that some time ago, the association wrote a
letter to the Governor of URR, Alagie Omar Khan, to forward it to the president
so that he would be aware of what is happening, but that no feedback was
received. He appealed to the farmers to exercise patience. He urged the
management of Gamcot to continue doing everything possible to settle the money it
owed the farmers.
This reporter visited the authorities at the Gamcot Company in Basse to get
their view on the matter. The Manager of the company, Mr. Amadou Danso told
this reporter in an interview that he spent 6 years working for the cotton
company, dating from 2001-2007. But according to him, Gamcot, there had never
been an instance when farmers experienced credit buying until 2007. According
to Mr. Danso, the decision was initiated by (COGA) who were of the view that
Gamcot should collect the cotton from the farmers so that it will not be
spoilt in their various local stores causing loses to both the farmers and Gamcot.
He said upon doing that, there was a transfer delay from their parent
company DAGRIS, a 60% shareholder in the company. He said materials like polythene
bags were requested from Senegal where they normally got them. But according
to Danso, they were not available at the time of the request. He said radio
announcement was made to apologise to the farmers about the delay, which he
said is a manifestation that the company knows the situation of the farmers. He
said without farmers, there would be no Gamcot, but without Gamcot also
there would be no cotton farmer. He appealed to the farmers to maintain patience
since the management is doing everything possible to gin the cotton so that
it can be marketed to pay farmers as well as the staff of the company. He said
they have a market; that if they start ginning farmers will surely receive
their money. He finally said that Gamcot is the property of The Gambia
Government.
ANNIESLAND COLLEGE (UK) AUTHORISES
PEOPLE’S CENTRE TO RECRUIT STUDENTS
Anniesland College, an Institute of higher Education in Glasgow, (UK), which
runs various courses including, Accounting, Administration and Information
Technology, Business and Information Technology, Travel and Tourism,
multimedia computing with Web! Development, Computer Networking, Computer software
Development, Engineering, Art and Design, General Catering. Health and Social
Care, Working with Communities, Social Sciences etc, has entered into agreement
with the People’s Centre at Churchill Town Serrekunda to recruit students
and designated Faye Suso as the authorized agent, to provide, among other
things, the following services on behalf of the college:
v Distribute College prospectus and application forms;
v Provide counseling on enrolment requirements, fees, course
structures, pass college offer letters to successful applicants and;
v Assist successful applicants in making Visa application.
Interested person/students may contact Faye Suso or Malick Manneh on
Telephone No. 9918216 / 7988216 / 6618216 or
[log in to unmask] or [log in to unmask]
For further details visit the website at www.anniesland.ac.uk
Recent Awards
Fourth consecutive Charter Mark Award 2005
Investor in People status retained 2005
Scottish Training Award 2004
Scottish Training Award 2005
UK Winner national Institute of Adult and Continuing Education Award 2004
Scottish Health at Work Silver 2005
Best Practice Awards Objectives 3 winner – Support for Local Initiative 2005
Young Child in Need of Overseas Treatment
A three year old child, Omar Ceesay of Taibatu village in the Wuli West
District of the Upper River Region, aged 3 has a history from birth of recurrent
fast breathing, bluish mouth and squatting position.
On examination by the RVTH board, the following details were revealed: well
weight squatting position
Central Cyanosis
Clubbing nail grade 3
CVS: Praecordium quiet no deformity
Apex beat 5 to 1CS
Murmurs 3/6 grade in LLIS.
According to the Medical Board report, Omar was admitted in the Peadiatric ‘
Special Care Unit on 16 July 2007 with difficulty in breating, increase
cyanosis and restlessness. The boy was given Oxygen by Nasal Prong, Ivantibiotic,
proponolol 1.5mg* kg. And discharged on 24 July 2007 with Provisional
diagnoses of cyanotic spell.
Anybody wishing to help can contact the father, Sambujang Ceesay, on this
number: 9993466 or Ebrima Jabbi: 9903187.
Diagnosis Provisional
1. Cyanotic congenital heart disease (TOF)
2. Cyanotic Spell.
Echocardiogram: This was performed without a proper transducer and the
diagnosis was not confirmed.
Chest-X-ray:
1. Heart like COR SABOT
2. Pulmonary flow decrease
The RVTH Medical Report finally recommended that Omar would benefit from
other investigation and need surgical treatment but this procedure is only
available overseas. Omar’s father, Mr. Sambujang Ceesay said he is a poor farmer
from the provinces; that he does not have the means to finance this overseas
treatment. He therefore calls on all philanthropic, NGOs and individual
Samaritans to help his child to have this most important treatment anywhere it is
available.
Flood Victims Receive Aid
By Bakary Seedy Dampha
The National Disaster Management Committee convened a meeting of donors and
other partners at the office of the vice President on Thursday 23 August
2007. The meeting was aimed at senstising them on the situation of disaster
management and other incidents that occurred in the country as a result of heavy
rainfall in the month of August 2007.
In her deliberation on Saturday 25 August at Serrekunda Fire Station Mrs.
Fatou Jassey Kuyateh said they were pleased to note that the UN agencies in the
country led by UNDP had immediately responded to her excellency’s appeal and
had agreed to provide initial assistance to the disaster affected victims in
the Ebo Town and Jeshwang Wards. Mrs. Kuyateh noted that UNICEF has provided
eight water tanks to the tune of 108,000 thousand dalasis. In addition, they
had provided various assistance through the Department of Health and Fire
Service. The UNDP, through the Disaster Management Project, provided 12 water
tanks, salvage materials and D20, 000 worth of fuel (a total contribution of
D200, 000). Those were all geared towards assisting victims of the recent
floods. She added that it is a clear indication of the positive resolve of the UN
agencies in The Gambia to assist The Gambia government in its development
endeavors. It is also a clear manifestation of the importance of coordination
in Disaster Management, without which there cannot be any effective disaster
intervention. However, she noted that responding to disaster may not be
sustainable in the long term, and it is for this reason that government sought
assistance from UNDP to develop a comprehensive and holistic disaster management
framework focusing on prevention, preparedness, mitigation, response,
recovery and development. Mrs. Kuyateh also highlighted that the National Disaster
Management Committee is currently developing a comprehensive policy and legal
framework on disaster management with the establishment of a national
institution and local level structures to undertake; hazards assessment, early
warning, community contingency planning etc. This, she said, will empower
communities and provide them with necessary capacities in hazards identification and
disaster response. She lamented that NDMC will embark on a nation wide tour
of the Regional Disaster Management Committee with the support of UNDP in
other to assess the work of committees and their state of preparedness on all
disaster issues within their communities. She also appealed on behalf of Her
Excellency the Vice President to other donors and private individuals to assist
in whatever forum to mitigate the impact the disaster events in the country.
She finally thanked the UN agencies in The Gambia and the NGOs for their
timely response. Other speakers included: Ebrima Sonko of Concern Universal and
Dr. Almamy Camara, Programme Officer, UNDP.
Tabara Samba’s Trial Adjourned
By Fabakary B. Ceesay
The murder trial involving Tabara Samba and state did not proceed on Tuesday
28 August before Magistrate Pa Harry Jammeh of the Kanifing Magistrates
Court due to the absence of the defence counsel.
However the prosecution witness, Doctor Abdoulie Alieu Ceesay who was
recalled by the defence, was in court. Mr. Ceesay was informed by the court that
the defence counsel Mrs. Amie Joof Conteh was sick and could not make it to the
court. Doctor Ceesay was asked by the magistrate to return to court on the
next sitting date, Thursday 30 August. The prosecuting officer, commissioner
Burama Dibba was also not in court when the matter was deferred. He was later
spotted in the court premises. Madam Tabara Samba is standing trial for
allegedly pouring hot oil on her husband, Mr. Ebrima Nyan, which lead to his
untimely death. Mr. Nyan was said to be in bed sleeping when the said incident
happened. The said incident occurred at Old Jeshwang some time in March this
year. She plead not guilty.
MARRIAGE AND FAMILY
A WOMAN OF SUBSTANCE
Part 4
Kate Meets Her Friend
Kate’s friend Fatima is a big babe. She is engaged in a car business. She
got Kate to invest into her business as a partner. Kate invested two thirds of
her inheritance money into Fatima’s business.
Lisa Comes Back
Lisa and Uncle Sheriff came back from a successful trip to France. Doctor’s
business associates were amused by Lisa’s ingenuity and business acumen. “
You are miniature of Doc. We will surely help”, they said. At home patriotic
customers decided to pay in advance which enabled Lisa to clear her
consignment. Uncle Sheriff was flabber gasted. He exclaimed. “You proved me wrong young
lady! I salute you! You are a genius! Doc. was never wrong about you! You
make me proud! I did not regret working with you. Doc will be smiling where ever
he is”. He hugged and gave Lisa a peck. “Congratulations!” Lisa exclaimed. “
We have made it!” The workers are proud of Lisa. She developed a team work
orgnisational culture. “Our company is like a human body. I am the brain but I
cannot function with the rest of the body. Each part should be healthy and
functioning. I cannot do it alone. Together let us move our company to higher
heights as my father always want it to be,” the staff concurred.
Lotty Buys A House
Lotty bought a house in the name of his fiance Essa and gave all the
documents to him. “You are the man of the house. When we are marred we’ll be one. I
don’t want your family or my family to look down on you”. Essa hugged and
gave Lotty a passionate lip kiss. “I’ll always love you. You are my sunshine!”
He gave Lotty more false promises. “You are my life!” he lied. “You
surprise me everyday. Not even my mum loves me the way you do. I am worried about
what people would say. They call me a moocher (dependant)”. “Don’t worry! Its
my money, our money!” Essa gave Lotty more passionate kisses.
Lisa Meets Her Staff
Lisa met her staff. The company engine is put to full gear. The empire is
lively again. Contacts bore fruition. Dividends started to be received. She
thanked her staff for their cooperation. She promoted all of them to the next
level of the ladder. Some dedicated staff who sacrificed the most received
double or triple promotion. Uncle Sheriff was one of them. Lisa introduced more
incentives to boost the workers’ morale. A loan scheme bonus scheme, prize
giving and excellence awards. Workers have more opportunities under Lisa’s
administration. Lisa is a role model. She teaches by example. Her style of work
gives no excuses for laziness. There was high inspiration and the desire of
reaching to higher heights. Work was back to full force. International
connection blossomed. Lisa met her targets. She won the confidence of her business
associates. Creditors supplied her regularly with goods. Everybody was happy.
Lisa Busy At Her Office
Lisa was always busy at her office. She came first and left the office last.
“Worker holic! None can beat her!” They gossiped. Lisa set herself target
which she always struggled to meet. She believed in good delivery. All her
clients have confidence in her. She always work hard for client satisfaction.
She is focused, polite, firm and unassuming. Lisa is a good manager and team
leader. “No side talks, all criticisms exposed at the Bantaba. (Friday
meetings),” Lisa told her employees. She employed criticism and selfcriticism
sessions. This method helped workers to excel and see each other as sisters and
brothers.
Fatima And Kate
Fatima visited Kate and they struck another deal. Kate’s inheritance money
diminished rapidly; from D200 million, it is now D10 million in less than a
year. “The new business will bring in fast cash. Trust me!” Fatima convinced
Kate. Unthinkably, she put her last D30 million into the new business. Fatima
coaxed and cajoled her to believe the business will work. Fatima gave her
some examples of success stories. Kate believed in Fatima’s connections. “It
will work. I’ll be rich!” Kate exclaimed.
Kate’s Experience
Kate realized that Fatima was engaged in counterband goods. She was cheating
on Kate. When Kate found out, she double crossed her. Fatima is well
connected. She set a trap for Kate and caught her red handed. She set her agents on
Kate. She was arrested and detained. She protested.
Fatima Rings Kate
Fatima rang Kate in police detention and mocked at her. “You bitch! You try
to double cross me? I am no match to you. There are no permanent stable
friends or enemies. I’ll make sure you are incarcerated,” Fatima swore. Kate felt
cheated, exploited and dejected. She cursed and insulted Fatima. “I’ll pay
back! I’ll pay back!” She swore.
Lotty’s Biggest Shock
Essa absconded to the U.S. he sold Lotty’s house and took the proceeds along
with him. Lotty travelled to the U.K. She came back for a wedding and a
transfer to their new house. To her utmost shock, the house was sold to a family
who were already occupying it. She thought it was mistake until she was shown
the transfer of the property form Essa to the new occupants. She collapsed.
Lotty was rushed and admitted at her family clinic.
Lisa Bails Kate
Lisa went to bail Kate from police custody. She hired a lawyer to take her
case. Kate was ashamed of herself and her unjust treatment of their last born
Lisa. She was also ashamed that Lisa had triumph despite the obstacles they
put on her path.
Kate Explains Herself
Kate explained her experience to Lisa. Lisa expressed disappointment. “We
cheated on you and God punished us. I have given all my inheritance money to
fraudsters. My D200 million has yielded me nothing. But look at your D50
million! It has yielded you money more millions. God bless you my blissful sister.
I am sorry for everything evil I’ve done to you”. Lisa smiled and shed
emotional tears”. I thank God that you still remember that I am your sister. I
have long forgotten about that”. Lisa patted her on her shoulder. “This is not
the end of the world. God is teaching you a lesson. It is not good to be
greedy. You took the golden eggs. I took and rehabilitated the goose that lays
the golden eggs. You finish your eggs. My goose continues to lay more golden
eggs. Cheer up! This is not the end of the world”. Kate hugged and gave Lisa a
peck.
At Court
Kate was taken to court. Her lawyer tried but the evidence against her was
overwhelming. She was accordingly sentenced to 10 years with hard labour. Her
sister Lotty and Lisa cried for her. She asked them not to cry. “I’ve made
my bed so I must lie on it. You have tried Lisa. You have tried. I love you, I’
m sorry for every evil I’ve done to you”. Lisa broke down emotionally. “
Your Lawyer will appeal! Your lawyer will appeal”. Lisa gave her courage.
Lisa Is Depressed
Lisa was really depressed. “My sister put shame on me. Look at their
blunders. D350 millions all went to the drain! What a shame! God is teaching them a
lesson. Wherever our parents are they will be displeased with them,” Lisa
soliloqued.
International Invitation
Lisa was invited for an Award on Business Excellence to South Africa. Many
awards are given to women of substance in all works of life business,
politics, journalism, human rights etc. This year Lisa won the Business Excellence
Award. She made every African women proud especially Gambians.
Global Web Construction Company
A documentary was made on Lisa. She was shown inspecting work sites which
featured her rapport with workers, personal motivation, her down to earth;
style of work, the love the workers have for her; her personal traits of
politeness, kindness and hard work. The documentary was shown by all major television
stations of the world CNN, SABC, CCTV, BBC, Euro News etc. Major radio
stations around he world also broadcast her speech when she received her award.
Lisa is really a woman of substance.
At Her Office
She handed over her office files. She is traveling the world over for two
months. She has to present a paper on Business Management. She will be missed
by her colleagues. They shed emotional tears. “I have empowered all of you to
do work while am away. I ‘m dispensable. Where is my beloved dad? I’ll go
the same way but Global Web lives forever. Uncle Sheriff is equally able. Give
her all your support. Remember the organizational culture. Teamwork! No one
can make it alone! Excellence is our watchword! Client satisfaction our
business! Success our vision!” They all concurred. In the evening a send off party
was made for her. She bade them farewell.
A Big Ceremony
Her presentation was aired over all the world major T.V stations. She also
received an ECOWAS Award for Women Of Substance. Lisa gave a touching speech.
She appealed for Government to released her sister from prison. They
responded positively. Kate was granted a presidential pardon. Lisa makes the Gambia
proud.
A Shero’s Welcome
Her company, family and friends gave her a shero’s welcome. She made
everybody proud. The three sisters held hands together and sang their childhood song
at their joyous moments. “I love mummy! I love daddy! Mummy buys me shoes!
Daddy buys me clothes! I love mummy! I love daddy!” They danced round and
round singing the song. The audience chorused an sang along with the happy
sisters. They narrated beautiful memories of daddy and mummy. “We know they are
smiling and are pleased with their girls wherever they are,” the sisters said.
The Sisters
Kate gone back to her medical practice. She refurbished her family clinic.
Lisa gave her a grant. Lotty set up her chambers. She gave Lisa a proposal.
She gave her a grant. They all lerant from their mistakes and resolved to move
on with their lives to make their dead parents proud. “God has blessed our
family tremendously. We need to be together. We need to be one. Everything I
have is for all of us,” Lisa posited. The trio hugged and embraced each other.
Kate is busy on emergency. Lisa visited the hospital and showed Kate and
fiance, Muhammed. “He is a computer guru. He has his own firm. They service our
computers. We want to get married. Elder sister (Taw) you replace mum and dad.
What have you to s ay?” “Accepted!” They all laughed over it. The wedding
day was set. It was modest as Lisa’s preference. They lived happily together
Kate and Lotty married later and happily live with their spouses
The End
GFA Saller Kit Sponsorship Deal Collapse
By Modou Nyang
Saller-Sport has terminated its contract with the Gambia Football
Association as kit sponsor to all the National football teams.
A press statement issued by Malick Camara Saller-Sport’s agent in the Gambia
indicated contractual “deceit” from the side of the Gambia Football
Association as cause for the collapse of the deal. Saller-Sport early this year
entered into a contract with the GFA as the official kit sponsor to all
categories of the National football teams, following a mutual agreement as kit
provider for over a year.
Malick, according to the release accused the GFA for expunging certain
sections from the agreed deal without Saller’s notice prompting the fury of the
Saller, who wrote to the FA on 9th July indicating a conditional notice to
terminate the contract. “This singular act of deceit is immoral and contrary to
the spirit of fair play professed in our beloved game” he stated.
The GFA started it’s relation with Saller in 2005 when the U-17 team to the
Fifa U- 17 Championship in Peru put on Saller jerseys during the tournament.
Since then all the other National teams have been wearing Saller football
kits including the U-20 teams’ participation in the African Youth Championship
in Congo in January and the Fifa U-20 World Cup in Canada, in July.
Trio Hoping for UEFA Cup Progress
By Modou Nyang
Dawda Bah, Tijan Jaiteh and Pa Saikou Kujabi will tomorrow seek to progress
to the next qualifying stage of the UEFA Cup with their respective clubs.
Dave and his HJK Helsinki side will travel to Denmark banking on a slim 2-1
first leg home win to face Aalborg (AaB). And Jaiteh’s Brann Bergen will also
travel away to the southern Lithuanian city of Marijampolė, to take on
Suduva. Brann also travels with a 2-1 home win from the first leg in Brann Stadium.
Pa Saikou Kujabi and his Austrian Bundesliga side SV Josko Fenster Ried on
the other hand will travel to Switzerland were they face a big challenge to
keep their hope of making it to the next stage. Ried drew 1-1 with Sion on 16th
August in the first leg.
Pacharr Nawettan in High Gears
By Junkung Bayo
Four teams have entered this year’s Nawettan in Pacharr Village in the
Central River Region. The Nawettan will be played in a round robbing format.
AC Milan, Barcelona, Chelsea and Manchester United are battling to claim the
2007 championship. On the official opening day of the tournament Wednesday
15th August, Barcelona and Chelsea fought a 1-1 draw amidst fan fare from the
supporters of the two sides.
And on the following day on Thursday, AC Milan played Manchester United and
in the 20th minute Malang Bayo put Milan in the lead but United fought back
to level the score in the 62nd through Alkalo Sanneh.
The next round of matches continued between Barcelona and AC Milan and
Muhammed Mankajang scored in the 56th minute to seal victory for Barcelona.
During the opening ceremony of the Nawettan Sulayman Bayo in deputizing for
the Village Alkalo Musa Bayo, urged the youths to adhere to the spirit of
sportsmanship to ensure a successful Nawettan. Bayo added by calling the youths
of the Village to utilise the homecoming of many of their peers as a tool for
unification.
Jollof Share Points with SK Central
By Bakary Seedy Dampha
Jollof FC played a 1-1 draw with Serrekunda Central FC on Tuesday in the
ongoing Serrekunda West Nawettan.
Jollof took an early lead into the game when Sulayman Ceesay cut through
Central’s defence and fired home the opener in the 27th minute. But Central
measured up to Jollof and level terms before the break.
Serrekunda Central striker Samba Sarr struck twice to put his side back into
the contention after Jollof’s keeper parried his first effort back to path.
In other matches over the weekend, Ngoyan drew zeroes with Lugan on Friday
whilst Ajax fell to Unicorns by a lone goal, on Saturday. On the same day too,
Sankung Sillah lost to Boyz United and New Jeswang United and Gintos fired
blanks on Sunday. The second match on Sunday between Pipeline and Dippakunda
United was rescheduled.
Gambia Euro Stars Roundup
By Modou Nyang
Gambian exports continued to battle for honours with their respective clubs
over the weekend after observing the international break last week.
Austria - Pa Saikou Kujabi and Modou Jange continue to perform badly with
their respective clubs as both sides lost their games. Jange was a 67th minute
substitute Saturday when they fall to a 1 goal defeat against Austria Wien.
And Pa Saikou did not giet involved as his club SV Josko Fenster Ried, got
hammered 3-0 by SK Rapid Wien on Saturday too.
Belgium – Assan Jatta and Mustapha Jarjue both of SK Lierse received a 5-1
away defeat in the hands of VW Hamme in the Belgian Cup on Saturday. Lierse
won their first game in the Cup competition against RFC Malmundaria 1904 4-0 on
18th August. But the meeting with fellow second division campaigners Hamme,
see them beaten heavily. Lierse will now face K.F.C. Verbroedering Geel today
for their second match in the league.
Denmark – Njogu Demba fired Esbjerg ahead in the 43rd minute on Sunday but
AaB fought back to win 2-1. Jesper Jørgensen scored an own goal to put the
visiting team on level terms in the 84th and Rade Prica struck home to fetch all
three for the visitors four minutes later.
England – Edrissa Sonko opened his English league 1 debut for Walsall with a
3-1 defeat to Swansea. Sonko joined the battle at his clubs home ground in
the 53rd minute after sitting out his sides previous matches due to injury.
Walsall took the lead in the 7th minute through Martin Butler. Edi replaced
Michael Dobson and got booked in the 77th for unsporting behaviour.
Finland – Dawda Bah and his Veikkausliiga club HJK were held to a 1-1 draw
by Koo Teepee on Saturday. 64th minute substitute, Sebastian Sorsa leveled for
the home siders in the 76th as they escaped a humiliating home defeat.
In the Finish first division (second tier) league, Demba Savage got on the
score sheet for Kokkolan Palloveikot (KPV) whilst his colleague Abdoulie Corr
(Paco) held out in defence against JJK (Joensuun Iloiset Peli-Pojat) but his
side lost the game 3-1. Savage scored to pull one back for KPV in the 57th
when they were trailing by two nil but JJK struck back through in the 71st to
put the match beyond the reach of Savage and Paco.
Norway – Tijan Jaiteh was not involved in Brann’s weekend fixture as they
hold on to a 1-1 draw away to IK Start on Sunday. The draw meant Brann reduce
their lead at the top of the Norwegian league table only by a single point.
Ebrima Sohna and his Sandefjord Football side are still languishing at the
bottom of the Norwegian Tippeligaen with only 15 points after 18 matches.
Sandefjord continued their poor showing on Monday night by losing 3-2 at home to
Stabaek. Sohna was not listed for the game.
Sweden – Goalkeeper Pa Dembo Touray and his club Djurgårdens IF failed to
utilise home advantage to go clear on top of the Swedish Allsvenskan league
table on Monday succumbing to a 3-1 defeat to Kalmar FF. Djurgårdens are now in
third position with 32 points to Kalmar’s 33.
Repatriated Gambian Migrant Discharged
By Modou Jonga
Magistrate E.F M’bai of the Brikama Magistrates’ Court had on Tuesday 28
August 2007 discharged Bakary Ngum, a twenty-one year old repatriated Gambian
Migrant from Spain. The latter who pleaded not guilty, was dragged to court by
the state for allegedly violating section nine of the Public Order Act on 28
October, 2006 shortly after he returned from Spain. He was accused of
violating the public order act at the Banjul International Airport.
When the case was called, prosecutor sub inspector 629 Saine stood up to
announce his appearance for the state and applied for an adjournment.
In his brief application, prosecutor Saine noted that it is unfortunate that
his witnesses are not available. He said they are posted at Fatoto Police
Intervention Unit where they are on duty constantly patrolling the border with
a view to crack down on armed robbers. Prosecutor Saine said he has on
numerous occasions consulted the station officer of the said Unit. He lamented that
he was informed that the personnel at the said Unit are few and unavailable
because of the dire need for constant border control.
In his ruling, the presiding Magistrate recalled that the accused was
arraigned in court in the month of November 2006 and that he has been coming to
court on numerous sittings. The Magistrate lamented that the prosecution has
been given reasonable time to bring witnesses to testify and as such the
prosecution has failed to prove the preferred offence against the accused person.
Department of Health Warns Food Handlers
By Yaya Bajo
The Department of State for Health and Social Welfare has issued a stern
warning to food handlers, hawkers and restaurant operators to ensure proper and
hygiene food handling at all times.
The dispatch warns that all people and premises involved in the food trade
are to strictly abide by the requirements of the Public Health Act of 1990 and
the Food Act of The Gambia 2005 with immediate effect. The release adds that
individuals and premises involved in the food trade should seek clearance
from the Director of Health Services; that the premises should be adequately be
supplied with portable water; and should be fly and dust proof; adequately
ventilated. The release states the way and manner in which chicken legs are
presently exposed for sale along public streets and open places and the market
is strictly prohibited; persons involved in the roasting and selling of
chicken legs along streets and in the open should desist from the practice with
immediate effect. The department further urges that all food premises should be
properly constructed so that they are safe and free from pests.
In conclusion, the release states that all these are in line with the
provisions of the Public Health and Food Acts of The Gambia. “Anybody who
contravenes the above will be seriously dealt with according to law. The co-operation
of the general public is hereby sought,” the release concludes.
Brikama Fish Market Construction Report Validated
By Modou Jonga
The report of the stakeholders on the workshop for the construction of the
Brikama fish market held at the office of the Governor of Western Region on
Tuesday, 14 August, 2007 was on Friday 24 August, 2007 validated by vendors,
canteen owners and fish retailers. The report will be adopted as
recommendations to be forwarded to relevant partners for consideration.
In his welcoming remarks, the Chief of Kombo Central, Alagi Dembo Satang
Bojang, expressed delight to welcome participants in the validation workshop.
While describing the fish market project as a milestone toward alleviating
poverty, Mr. Bojang noted that if completed, the fish market would be of economic
significance to the entire country and even beyond.
On his part, the Regional Governor of Western Region, Abdou F. M Badjie,
expressed hope that the series of consultation workshops organized by the
Fisheries Department will pave way for the conducive and unhindered construction of
the fish market. Mr. Badjie urged those to be relocated to exercise patience
and assured them that they would be relocated to a business convenient and
an accessible site. The Regional Governor further affirmed his unflinching
support and cooperation in the construction of the fish market.
In his statement, the Assistant Director of Fisheries, Mr. Famara Dampha,
noted that the stakeholders report was jointly scrutinised by Fisheries
Authorities and the Basic Design Team from the Japanese International Cooperation
Agency (JICA). The Assistant Director of Fisheries informed the participants
that the request of consultancy services for the management of the fish market
and the provision of a pick-up vehicle, amongst others were incorporated into
the recommendations’ of the stakeholders report.
On their part, Representatives of JICA, Mr. MARVO and MR. TSUCHIYA called
for cooperation and closed collaboration amongst stakeholders for the
successful construction of the fish market. The Japanese representatives further urged
Brikama Area Council and partners to locate an appropriate alternative site
for the relocation of those to be affected by the construction of the fish
market.
The one day validation workshop was concluded with minutes of the workshop
adopted by stakeholders and signed by the Chairman of Brikama Area council,
Mr. Ousman Gaye, and Mr. MARUO, leader of the Japanese Basic Design Team.
The validation workshop was chaired by Mr. Ousman Mass Jobe, Senior
Fisheries Officer.
In Lamin Jarju’s Impersonation Trial
Court Urged to Acquit and Discharge Accused
By Modou Jonga
Defence Counsel Borry Touray, had urged the Brikama Magistrate Court to
acquit and discharge his client, Lamin Jarju, who is standing trial for allegedly
impersonating as an Alkalo of Babylon Ward at Lamin in the Kombo North
District.
Lawyer Touray made this remark on Monday 27 August 2007 before Magistrate E.
F. M’bai. In making his brief submission of “no case to answer”, Touray
noted that the prosecutor has failed to prove the essential ingredients of the
case against his client. Touray stated that the prosecutor has not raised
enough justification before the court which would in law compel the accused to
enter his defence.
Speaking further Lawyer Touray told the court that the prosecutor has not
adduced evidence to prove that the accused falsely represented a person and
that the accused falsely presented himself to be a person employed in the public
service. Lawyer Touray said the prosecutor should satisfy the court that the
office which the accused is alleged to falsely impersonated himself as
holding is an office in the public service as required by the criminal code which
creates the offence. Touray submitted that the office of an Alkalo is not an
office in the public service and that the office of an Alkalo cannot be
described as a public office. He stated that the position of an Alkalo is that of
a community leader.
Counsel Touray stated that the prosecution witness had admitted during cross
examination that the office of an Alkalo is not an office of the public
service and that the office of an Alkalo is not an office entitled to payment of
salaries amongst others.
Counsel Touray therefore urged the court to accordingly acquit and discharge
the accused person of the offence charged because the prosecution has failed
to prove essential ingredients of the case.
The prosecutor later stood up and urged the court to grant him reasonable
adjournment to enable him to reply to the submission of the defence counsel.
The case was adjourned till Tuesday 4 September, 2007.
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