Gambian Foreign Minister Dr. Mamadou Tangara faced intense questioning in the National Assembly regarding several scandals involving recalled Gambian diplomats. Over the past few years, diplomats stationed in the U.S., Cuba, Mauritania, and Russia have been recalled due to various controversies.
Minister Tangara acknowledged that some of these diplomats, whose actions caused embarrassment to the country, were removed from the foreign service, though he did not disclose their names.
Among the incidents, four diplomats were expelled by the U.S. last year for visa fraud.
In Cuba, two diplomats were recalled over an “unfortunate incident,” along with a finance officer.
In Mauritania, a diplomat was recalled under controversial circumstances.
When asked about further actions taken, Tangara explained that while some diplomats are no longer with the foreign service, they remain part of the civil service.
The ministry has limited authority over their civil service status but can prevent them from rejoining the foreign service due to the need to safeguard the country’s image.
Tangara added that, unlike in other countries where diplomats often leave voluntarily after controversies, the Gambian government has had to take action by removing them from foreign postings. Once recalled, they are placed under the civil service, which determines their subsequent placement.
