In any democracy, the integrity and moral standards of public offices are fundamental to good governance, public trust, and national development. In The Gambia, this principle is enshrined in the Constitution, the General Orders, the Civil Service Code of Conduct, and the various service rules that govern the conduct of public servants. As such, it is imperative that all public officials—particularly those occupying sensitive positions—adhere strictly to these guidelines.
The Minister of Interior, Hon. Abdoulie Sanyang, and the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Hon. Dawda Jallow, hold offices of critical national importance. Their roles demand the highest levels of impartiality, integrity, and professionalism. These are not just legal expectations but moral obligations to the Gambian people, whose trust and resources sustain these institutions.
Recent instances of senior government officials attending political events organized by the National People’s Party (NPP) and donning party-branded attire have raised serious concerns among citizens. While every citizen has a right to political association, public officials must be guided by the principle of neutrality when discharging their official duties. Participation in overtly partisan activities undermines the credibility of their offices and erodes public confidence in the neutrality of the state machinery.
Maintaining political neutrality is not just a procedural formality; it is a critical safeguard against abuse of office and the politicization of state institutions. When high-ranking officials are seen to align openly with a political party, it sends a troubling message about fairness, equal treatment under the law, and the independence of key ministries and departments.
Therefore, to preserve the dignity and impartiality of their offices, both the Minister of Interior and the Attorney General must lead by example. Their actions should reflect strict adherence to service rules, respect for the Constitution, and a commitment to nonpartisanship. The integrity of The Gambia’s democratic institutions depends on it.
In these trying times when national unity and institutional credibility are paramount, public officials must rise above party politics and uphold the values of neutrality, accountability, and service to all Gambians—regardless of political affiliation.
