By Kebba AF Touray
In a pivotal statement, Deputy Speaker of The Gambia’s National Assembly, Hon. Seedy SK Njie, addressed the evolving nature of security sector governance, highlighting the need for reform in response to new and emerging threats such as cybercrime, land disputes, and transnational organized crime.
Hon. Njie, also serving as the Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Security, presented the National Security Council Bill 2023 before the assembly for consideration. The bill, he emphasized, is crucial for the continued reform of The Gambia’s security apparatus.
“Security sector governance has evolved significantly in the 21st century due to numerous emerging threats,” Hon. Njie said. “This bill is not only important—it is essential.” He stressed that the National Security Council, if established, would play a vital role as the principal advisory body, ensuring the proper coordination and integration of national security policies.
He underscored that the bill aligns with the mandates outlined in Section 78 of The Gambia’s 1997 Constitution, which tasks the executive with providing the President with advice on national security issues. The Council, once in place, would also facilitate interdepartmental cooperation on security matters.
The committee’s report included several key recommendations. Notably, it suggested that the Office of National Security, rather than the Accountant General, should manage the funds designated for security operations. Additionally, the report proposed changes to several clauses within the bill. Clause 20 would be renamed “Estimates, Accounts, and Audits,” while Clause 21 would be updated to “Annual Report.”
Hon. Njie expressed gratitude to the members of the Standing Committee on Defense and Security and the National Assembly staff for their contributions. He urged legislators to carefully examine the bill, which aims to modernise The Gambia’s security infrastructure and better equip it to address contemporary threats.
