The Gambia Armed Forces (GAF) has issued a stern press release condemning what it describes as “unethical, unpatriotic, and unbecoming” public commentary by former military commander Mr. Samsudeen Sarr and politician Mr. Essa Mbaye Faal. The statement, released today, warns against what the military terms a growing trend of misinformation and politicisation of the Armed Forces in media and public discourse.
According to the GAF High Command, the remarks made by Mr. Sarr—referencing a past incident involving Senegalese gendarmerie personnel under the ECOMIG mission and questioning the deployment of GAF soldiers at strategic locations—are “misleading” and framed in a way that misrepresents the professionalism and neutrality of the national army.
Equally, the Armed Forces took issue with comments made by Mr. Faal, a former TRRC lead counsel and presidential hopeful, who recently alleged that the GAF is being sidelined by the government. The military argues that such claims, made without evidence or context, only serve to politicise the institution and undermine its credibility and reform efforts.
“These actions appear calculated to use the name of the Armed Forces to score political points and gain cheap popularity, a practice the GAF will not tolerate under any guise,” the statement reads.
GAF emphasised its ongoing commitment to the Security Sector Reform (SSR) agenda initiated under the current government and reaffirmed its subordination to democratic civilian control. The Armed Forces highlighted progress in professionalising the institution and aligning with international best practices.
Calling for responsible commentary, the release urged political figures, the media—specifically naming West Coast Radio—and public commentators to avoid dragging the Armed Forces into partisan debates.
“The Armed Forces will not sit idly by while its name and mandate are used as tools for political manipulation,” the release warns. “Such actions not only undermine national cohesion but also have the potential to incite division and compromise national security.”
GAF concluded with a call for unity and support from Gambians both at home and abroad, reiterating its mission to maintain peace, security, and contribute meaningfully to national development.
