By Makutu Manneh
The Minister of Lands, Regional Governments, and Religious Affairs, Hamat N.K. Bah has announced the suspension of the Alkalolu (village heads) of Tanji and Batokunku, effective Wednesday, 8 October 2025.
Minister Bah said the action follows reports of misconduct, emphasizing the government’s commitment to accountability at all levels.
“We will continue to deal with unscrupulous people who are taking government resources and selling them for their selfish use,” he declared.
He added that the regional governor has been instructed to ensure that both Alkalolu hand over all official materials to the authorities pending their replacement.
Minister Bah reaffirmed his ministry’s resolve to uphold integrity in public service, warning that no one would be exempt from disciplinary action. “No sacred cow will exist anymore,” he asserted.
The minister also underscored the importance of responsible land management, calling on citizens to exercise vigilance when purchasing land.
“Make sure you find out whether the person selling that land belongs to him or not. You don’t buy land as if you are buying a car. It’s not the same. And that’s the mistake most Gambians are making,“ he cautioned.
Bah stressed that safeguarding the country’s land resources requires collective responsibility and adherence to proper procedures.