With MUHAMMED S. BAH
Welcome to another edition of the Arts and Music, the Column that seeks to promote Arts, Music and Culture in the Gambia. In this edition of the Column, we will give an update on the Gambia Music Union on ‘Killa’ Ace’s arrest and detention and the setting up of an Interim Gambia Music Union.
The Music Union was dissolved and a five-member steering committee was elected to oversee it within three months during a recent congress at Manduar in the West Coast Region of The Gambia. Artists and stakeholders tasked the committee to review and draft a new Constitution for the Union before the end of the three months and for elections to take place to determine the official executive of the Union.
The new interim body is now headed by Gibril Bala-Gaye as President of the Union, Ali Baba Ace Cham as Secretary-General, Pa Modou Sarr, Ensa Colley, alias Worldvibe General and Lizzy as executive members respectively.
Gambian musician Jaliba Kuyateh has ceased to be the leader of the Gambia Music Union. The Brikama-based kora star was elected to replace Oliver Mboge three years ago whose reign was criticised for failing to take the Union beyond its low level.
Jaliba promised to overhaul the Union during his victory speech, when he was flanked by his executives.
However, barely three years into his reign, delegates grew frustrated over the veteran’s administration characterized by absenteeism during top-level Union meetings.
Ali Cham alias ‘Killa’ Ace, the current Secretary-General of the Gambia Music Union, pointed out that it is a major challenge but Gambians must take responsibility in one way or another, to bring about the true change they have been yearning for. “Thanks to all artists and stakeholders, for entrusting us with such a responsibility. We (together) can change the dynamics of the country,” he said.
