By Mahzouba Maya Faal
The Vice President of The Gambia, His Excellency Mohammed B.S Jallow addressed several pressing issues during the second ordinary session of the National Assembly, held on July 3rd, 2024. The session saw National Assembly members posing series of questions regarding government operations, transparency, and public policy.
Vice President’s Residence
Rehabilitation
Hon. Bakary K. Badjie of Foni Bintang Constituency raised concerns about the Vice President not residing at the official residence in Fajara. The Vice President clarified that the residence is currently under rehabilitation and informed that he will move by the end of July, 2024.
Inquiry into former President Jammeh’s assets
Hon. AlmamehGibba of FoniKansala Constituency inquired about the ambiguities surrounding the sale of former President Yahya A.J.J. Jammeh’s assets. The Vice President responded that his office, in consultation with the Ministry of Justice, is preparing a comprehensive report on the matter. However, the government is not considering a further inquiry at this time.
Roles of Special Presidential Advisers
Hon. YahyaSanyang of LatrikundaSabiji Constituency sought clarification on the roles and responsibilities of Special Presidential Advisers compared to Presidential Advisers. The Vice President explained that Special Presidential Advisers act as personal confidantes to the President and provide advice on technical and administrative matters, while Presidential Advisers have more specific duties.
Flood Prevention readiness
Hon. Sulayman Jammeh of Bundungka Kunda Constituency questioned the readiness of the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) in preventing flooding in vulnerable areas. The Vice President assured that preparatory activities for the 2024 rainy season have commenced. The NDMA, in collaboration with partners, is implementing short-term measures.
Furthermore, he also informed that the WACA project under the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, and Natural Resources is currently undertaking manual excavation of the Kotu Stream to maintain its natural contour.
OIC Summit vehicle procurement
Hon. Omar Jammeh of Janjanbureh Constituency sought clarification on the procurement of vehicles for the Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC) summit. The Vice President confirmed that 89 vehicles were handed over to the government, down from the initially planned 100, due to changes in vehicle specifications.
Job creation efforts
In response to Hon. Omar Jammeh’s inquiry about the government’s job creation efforts, the Vice President stated that the target of 150,000 jobs, as announced by the President, was based on the National Employment Policy and Action Plan 2022-2026. He emphasised that the government’s role is to create an enabling environment for private sector-led job creation.
This session highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to address national concerns and maintain transparency and accountability in its operations. The Vice President’s responses provided crucial updates and reassurances to the National Assembly and the Gambian
