By Kebba AF Touray
In a surprising turn of events, Mr. Modou Ceesay, Auditor General of The Gambia’s National Audit Office (NAO), has formally declined his appointment as Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment.
The announcement comes just days after President Adama Barrow announced a minor cabinet reshuffle, naming Mr. Ceesay as the new Minister of Trade, replacing Mr. Baboucarr Ousmaila Joof, who has been reassigned to head the Defense Ministry.
President Barrow’s cabinet changes were made under the authority of Section 71 (1) and (3) of the 1997 Constitution, with an official State House press release stating, “President Barrow also appointed Mr. Modou Ceesay, Auditor General, as Minister for Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment.”
However, on Thursday, September 11th, 2025, the NAO issued a staff notice informing all stakeholders that Mr. Ceesay had respectfully declined the ministerial offer. The notice read: “The Auditor General (AG), Mr. Modou Ceesay, wishes to inform all concerned stakeholders that following the announcement of his appointment as Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment by the Office of the President, he has officially responded and respectfully declined the offer.”
The notice further stated that Mr. Ceesay remains dedicated to his current role as Auditor General, emphasizing his commitment to public sector auditing as a means of improving the lives of Gambian citizens. “AG Ceesay solicits the support of all stakeholders in steering the affairs of NAO and calls for collective efforts in strengthening the public financial management system of the country,” the statement continued.
Staff were urged to continue with their regular duties while awaiting updates, and were reminded to adhere strictly to NAO’s communication policies regarding media inquiries and public discourse on social media, particularly concerning what was described as a “critical matter.” Any media or stakeholder requests for information are to be directed to the head of NAO’s Communications Unit.
The notice concluded by calling for the continued dedication and teamwork of all staff members to advance the institution’s objectives within The Gambia’s governance structure. Mr. Ceesay’s decision underscores his commitment to upholding transparency and accountability in public financial management at a time when such values are increasingly vital to national development.
