By Fatou Krubally
Veteran lawyer Omar F. M’Bai has expressed strong support for the newly appointed Chief Justice, saying there is confidence within the legal profession in his ability to lead the Judiciary and uphold constitutional order.
M’Bai made the remarks during a courtesy call on the new Chief Justice, where he also challenged the perception that opposition to the appointment represents the position of the entire Gambian legal profession.
He commended the President of the Gambia Law Society for organising the courtesy call and a press briefing the previous day, which he said helped clarify that the challenge to the Chief Justice’s appointment did not represent a unanimous position among lawyers.
According to M’Bai, there remains an independent legal view in support of the constitutional process that led to the appointment.
Congratulating the Chief Justice on assuming leadership of the Judiciary, M’Bai highlighted his nearly four decades of legal practice, including experience in what he described as a highly developed judicial environment.
“We have every confidence that you will bring to this high office the independence, learning, fairness and sound judgment that have characterised your professional career,” M’Bai said.
He said he was confident that the decision to appoint the new Chief Justice to succeed his retired predecessor had been carefully considered and was appropriate.
M’Bai also recalled a personal experience involving the Chief Justice many years ago in Raleigh, North Carolina.
He said he had experienced racial discrimination at a Best Buy store and received pro bono legal assistance from the Chief Justice. According to M’Bai, the intervention led to the matter being resolved amicably.
“I have never forgotten that act of professional generosity and principle,” he said, adding that the experience made it particularly meaningful for him to see the Chief Justice entrusted with leading the Judiciary.
M’Bai wished the Chief Justice wisdom, courage and strength as he assumes the responsibilities of the office.
He described the Judiciary as one of the key guardians of constitutional order and expressed confidence that it would continue to command public trust under the new Chief Justice through independence, integrity, fairness and adherence to the law.
“Please be assured of our goodwill and our principled support as you undertake this important national responsibility,” M’Bai told the Chief Justice.
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