Councilor MC Cham Jr and Seedy Njie Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly
By Buba Gagigo
MC Cham Jr, Business Councillor at the Kanifing Municipal Council and a formidable member of the United Democratic Party (UDP), has issued a strong rebuttal to Seedy Njie, Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly and Deputy Spokesperson of the National People’s Party (NPP), who accused the UDP and its leader of manipulating and weaponizing institutions during his tenure in government.
“NPP appears to be perturbed by the truth we are vocalizing, but UDP stands firm as a beacon of truth. We are an inclusive party; injustice anywhere is met with our condemnation. Mayor Talib Ahmed Bensouda’s remarks on poverty, hunger, and deportation have unsettled them (NPP), but it’s the unvarnished truth,” remarked MC Cham Jr.
Following the UDP’s press statement denouncing the police’s use of tear gas on members of ‘No To Alliance,’ signed by their party leader, Seedy Njie and APRC leader Fabakary Tombong Jatta responded. However, MC Cham Jr believes they should have jointly condemned the police brutality suffered by ‘No To Alliance’ members.
“When the UDP issued its press statement, signed by the party leader, Seedy Njie and the speaker vented their ire. However, I believe they should have condemned the tear gas deployed against Gambians (‘No To Alliance’). UDP represents all Gambians and stands for truth and the nation’s interests. Seedy Njie, given his history, should be the last to speak in The Gambia. He should introspect deeply,” asserted MC Cham Jr.
He continued, “His actions are well-known, and their repercussions linger. He was instrumental in driving many into exile, causing some to lose their possessions. He staunchly opposed President Barrow’s inauguration, despite the nation voting Jammeh out. His present tranquility owes much to Ousainu Darboe and the UDP, who tirelessly championed democracy in The Gambia at great personal cost. “
Seedy Njie also accused Darboe of tribalism during his tenure as foreign minister, an accusation MC Cham Jr vehemently refutes.
“If you know Ousainu Darboe, you know he’s not a tribalist; everyone is equal to him. They introduced tribal politics into the country, but now the entire Gambia understands that it’s not true. Darboe appointed people based on competence. For instance, the former Ambassador of South Africa, Abdoulie Bojang, was appointed by him. OG Sallah is from which tribe? Momodou Tangara, Ramsey Diab, Sidat Jobe, Janaba Njie, and the late Femy Peters were all ambassadors. This demonstrates that he appointed individuals regardless of their tribe or family affiliation but based on qualification.”
Seedy Njie also said Darboe once reported him to be arrested, but MC Cham Jr said that has never happened.
“If you’re familiar with Ousainu Darboe, you’d know he’s not one to wield power; in fact, power resided with the president. Since UDP’s removal from government, what has changed? The country is facing its toughest moments of hardship. They claim there’s democracy now, but where’s the democracy? Speaking out lands you in the police station, which wasn’t the case when the UDP was in power. Even a single Facebook post can get you summoned. So, what democracy are they referring to? People need to realize that the direction this country is heading in is concerning. UDP spoke the truth,” he remarked.
Cham also informs Seedy Njie that Darboe is the catalyst for his current influential position.
“The president relied heavily on Darboe’s name during the campaign, while you opposed Barrow. It’s only in The Gambia because the president lacks direction, which is why he appointed you as a deputy speaker. At this moment, you should apologize to the Gambian people for your actions, as you’re responsible for sending many into exile. In other countries, you wouldn’t hold any position of authority,” he concluded.