Mod K. Ceesay, Chief of Staff
By Buba Gagigo
President Adama Barrow has announced the establishment of a new Chief of Staff ministry and appointed MOD K. CEESAY as Chief of Staff and Minister at the Presidency, effective November 18, 2024. Alongside this appointment, Dr. Habibatou Drammeh has been appointed as the Minister of Basic and Secondary Education, while Mr. Lamin Jabbi takes on the role of Minister of Communication and Digital Economy.
In a statement from the Ministry of Information, the public was informed that the creation of the new ministerial portfolio was done in accordance with Section 71(1) of the Constitution.
“The general public is hereby informed that His Excellency the President, acting under Section 71(1) of the Constitution, has created a new Ministerial portfolio within the office of the President. Alongside this role, the new Minister will also serve as the Chief of Staff to the President, a position now removed from the public service framework. As Chief of Staff and Minister at the Presidency, the office holder will serve as a key adviser and administrator to the President, ensuring efficient coordination of presidential engagements, and functions,” the Information Ministry said.The State House further emphasized that the Chief of Staff’s responsibilities would include overseeing the execution of presidential decisions, ensuring alignment with the broader government agenda, and helping drive efficiency in the President’s office.
“Additionally, the Minister will oversee the daily operations of the Office of the President and coordinate the work of presidential advisors, ensuring their recommendations align with the President’s agenda. Accordingly, and acting under section 71(3) of the Constitution of the Republic of The Gambia, His Excellency the President is pleased to appoint MOD K. CEESAY as CHIEF OF STAFF AND MINISTER AT THE PRESIDENCY, effective from 18* of November 2024,” they announced.In related developments, President Barrow has also merged the roles of Secretary General and Head of the Civil Service with that of the Secretary to Cabinet. This strategic move, according to the presidency, is intended to streamline operations and improve the efficiency of government administration.
“The Secretary to Cabinet guides policy development in Cabinet meetings, while the Head of the Civil Service ensures these policies are implemented across ministries and departments. Consolidating these roles with a single individual helps bridge gaps in understanding and ensures a smooth transition from policy to action,” they announced.In line with this merger, President Barrow has appointed ALIEU NJIE as the new Secretary to Cabinet and Head of the Civil Service, effective November 15, 2024.