Barrow Swears in New Foreign Minister, IEC Leadership and Reparation Commissioner

President Adama Barrow on Thursday presided over the official swearing-in ceremony of key government officials at the State House, marking a significant step in strengthening national governance and democratic institutions.

Those sworn in include Honourable Modou Njie as the new Minister for Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad, Mr. Joseph Colley as Chairperson of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), Dr. Cherno Jallow as Deputy Chairperson, and Ms. Isatou Jammeh as Commissioner of the Reparation Commission.

Following the administration of oaths, President Barrow congratulated the appointees and reminded them of the weighty responsibilities ahead.

“You are entrusted with enormous tasks, including building on best practices, avoiding and managing lapses, and improving on shortcomings for efficiency to better serve the people,” the President stated.

Addressing the new Foreign Minister, President Barrow urged Honourable Njie to guide the country’s diplomatic policies with focus and purpose.

“Your role is to build friendships and encourage investments that support our national development agenda.”

Turning to electoral matters, the President highlighted the need for robust reforms in order to bolster public confidence and uphold the democratic process.

“We must work towards more suitable electoral reforms to strengthen our electoral processes and procedures,” he stressed.

On the nation’s Transitional Justice Programme, President Barrow expressed hope that victims of past abuses would finally receive justice, noting his administration’s commitment to healing and accountability.

The President also took time to express appreciation to outgoing Foreign Affairs Minister Dr. Mamadou Tangara and retired IEC Chairman Alhajie Alieu Momar Njie for their dedicated service to the nation.

“I commend them for their invaluable contributions and pray for their continued success,” Barrow said.

Speaking on behalf of the newly appointed officials, Honourable Modou Njie thanked the President for the trust placed in them.

“We reaffirm our commitment, loyalty and duty to the nation,” he declared.

The event signals a new chapter in The Gambia’s diplomatic engagement, electoral management, and transitional justice, with expectations high for sustained progress in all sectors.