By Our Western Region Chief Correspondent Wise Man
Gambia’s President Yahya Jammeh says the newly appointed paramount chief for Western Region, Demba Sanyang, is next to the Local Government Minister Ismaila Sambou, and can recommend for the dismissal of any chief in that region. Mr. Jammeh who was speaking during the official inauguration of the newly hired paramount chief Demba Sanyang, says Sanyang is as powerful as a Government Minister. He therefore calls on Chief within Sanyang’s jurisdiction to adhere to Sanyang’s orders at all time.
Demba Sanyang replaces the sacked paramount chief for Western Region Dembo Santa Bojang. Bojang was relieved of his duties due to alleged political matters. Mr. Bajang still maintains the position of chief, even though he lost the prestige of being called a paramount chief.
Addressing a sizeable crowd of party supporters Friday, the Gambian leader said paramount chief Demba Sanyang has an important role to play in The Gambia. Among his duties, said Jammeh includes presiding over local courts and also to head chiefs in his region. “ Every chief should respect him as your boss, otherwise he can recommend for your dismissal.” said President Jammeh.
Mr. Jammeh also calls on National Assembly members to respect chiefs in their regions or risked being dismissed from his party. He says chiefs have a lot of influence in the country and should be treated with respect. Jammeh says any report submitted by chiefs against NAMS would be looked into and if an adverse evidence is established against such MPS, they would accorded a farewell. He says his party had zero tolerance for arrogance and disrespect for local authorities.
Jammeh also urges chiefs to dispense justice with fairness. He says chiefs entrusted with enforcing the law, should remain impartial in their day to day administration. He says chiefs should not take sides on legal disputes brought before them.
Among the dignitaries who graced the ceremony include: Vice President Isatou Njie Saidy, the Chief Justice, the Attorney General the 42 chiefs, the Speaker of the House and a cross section of the community.
