By Seedy Jobe
Lawmakers in the National Assembly on Tuesday called on the government to urgently open talks with Senegalese authorities over the worsening conflict in Senegal’s Casamance region, warning that the violence is increasingly spilling across the border into Gambian communities.
The motion, introduced by Almameh Gibba, the representative for Foni Kansala, prompted a tense debate as members described growing insecurity in the Foni area, where villages near the frontier have reported displacement, school closures, and disruptions to farming.
“This is not merely an issue of internal displacement. It is a matter of national protection and sovereignty,” Mr. Gibba said, citing the impact on communities in Foni Bintang Karanai, including Jakin, Kayenga, Kamosor, Batenden, and Ajapina.
Residents, he said, are “living in fear,” with basic services curtailed and livelihoods under strain. “Our people are living in fear, their schools are shut, and their livelihoods are disrupted,” he said.
Mr. Gibba urged the government to provide humanitarian assistance to displaced families and to reinforce the protection of Gambian territory. He also called on the National Early Warning and Response Mechanism Coordination Centre to correct what he described as a mischaracterization of affected Gambian villages as being located close to Casamance.
Other lawmakers echoed his concerns. Bakary K. Badjie, who represents Foni Bintang Karanai, described the situation as unacceptable and pressed the government to take stronger responsibility for the safety of border communities.
“We want our affairs, especially in the border areas, to be addressed,” he said.
Lamin Ceesay, the member for Kiang West, called for a bipartisan response, urging colleagues to set aside political differences. “We must do away with politics and sentiments and address this issue with urgency,” he said.
Responding to the debate, the majority leader, Billy G. Tunkara, said the government remained committed to safeguarding citizens, pointing to constitutional guarantees of fundamental rights. He also urged residents to cooperate with authorities and avoid involvement in illicit cross-border activities.
The debate reflected mounting concern within the Assembly over the government’s handling of the crisis. Several members called for a coordinated strategy combining security measures, community engagement, and closer regional cooperation with Senegal.
The motion drew broad support across party lines, with lawmakers emphasizing the need for swift action to contain the humanitarian impact and to prevent further encroachment on Gambian territory.
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