By: Isatou Sarr
The Gambia Armed Forces (GAF) has called for calm following allegations made against former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), saying an inquiry into the matter has begun.
It could be recalled that the former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General (Rtd) Mamat O.A. Cham faced online allegations made by his former Personal Assistant, ex-Sergeant Saine Modou which led to the former’s resignation.
In a statement issued out recently, GAF said it was aware of the allegations circulating on various social media platforms, which led to the resignation of Lieutenant General (Rtd) Cham as CDS. However, the military noted that no substantive evidence had yet been established in relation to the claims.
GAF states that, as a critical national institution, it has over the years earned the trust, confidence and respect of the Gambian people through its professionalism, discipline and commitment to constitutional governance.
The institution says this reputation is reflected in independent public perception surveys, including findings by the Centre for Research and Policy Development (CRPD) and the Afrobarometer Survey, which identified GAF as one of the country’s most trusted public and security institutions.
“Given the seriousness of the allegations and the need to maintain public confidence, while ensuring accountability, President Adama Barrow, Commander-in-Chief of The Gambia Armed Forces, has directed the establishment of an independent Board of Inquiry (BOI) to investigate the matter,” the statement noted.
GAF says it will not pre-empt the outcome of the investigation and will allow the Board of Inquiry to conduct a thorough, impartial and comprehensive inquiry.
While awaiting the findings and recommendations of the BOI, the military emphasizes that it operates under clearly established ethical standards, administrative procedures and codes of conduct that apply to all serving personnel, regardless of rank, appointment or status.
According to the statement, the GAF High Command continues to discharge its responsibilities in line with established military principles of discipline, professionalism, accountability and decorum across all formations and units.
The military further stated that due regard continues to be given to the chain of command, institutional processes and the welfare of personnel at all levels. It added that the matter has not affected operational effectiveness, command cohesion or the routine functioning of the High Command.
“The institution therefore remains steadfast in the execution of its constitutional mandate and urges the public to exercise restraint,” the statement said.
GAF reaffirmed its commitment to its constitutional responsibilities and the welfare of its personnel, adding that it will continue to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity and service in safeguarding the Armed Forces and advancing the national interest of The Gambia.
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