Vice President Muhammed BS Jallow and members of the ATI Commission
By Fatou Sillah
His Excellency Muhammad B.S. Jallow presided over the swearing-in ceremony of the members of the Access to Information (ATI) Commission at the State House in Banjul.
The ATI Commission was established by the Gambian government to enforce the Access to Information law, aimed at promoting transparency and accountability. The National Assembly passed the ATI Bill in July 2021, and President Adama Barrow later signed it into law. This landmark legislation is the first in Gambian history to recognize access to information as a fundamental human right.
Under the ATI Act, the public has the right to request access to a wide range of public information, such as records, correspondence, data, statistics, books, maps, audiovisual materials, and more—regardless of the format.
During his address at the ceremony, VP Jallow highlighted the significance of this event as a key step in advancing the country’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and open information sharing.
“It is a clear testimony of the Government’s resolve, under the dynamic leadership of His Excellency President of the Republic of The Gambia, Adama Barrow, to reposition itself to become more open, accessible and transparent in its dealings with the public, as well as enhance citizens access to public information.
“Therefore, today marks a significant moment in our journey towards ensuring transparency, accountability, and the free flow of information in the country. It is with immense pride and honour that we gather here to witness the swearing-in of the Information Commissioners, who will serve as the guardians of the ATI Act 2021. Your appointment as Commissioners demonstrates the confidence and trust bestowed on you by the Government to support its quest in advancing its democratic credentials and embrace an open governance system where citizens are not just spectators but active participants in the democratic process,” He Said.
He acknowledged the challenges ahead but expressed confidence in the Commissioners’ abilities to rise to the occasion, stating, “I am very much aware that the responsibilities bestowed on you are huge, and the challenges ahead are massive. However, I am convinced that with your diverse expertise, experiences, demeanor, and support from the Government, you will emerge victorious in this noble crusade. In this regard, please allow me to take this opportunity, on behalf of His Excellency, the President of the Republic, the Cabinet, and on my own behalf, to sincerely congratulate and commend you for accepting your appointments, which exemplifies your loyalty, commitment and love for your country,” he said.
VP Jallow reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing full support to ensure the smooth operation of the ATI Commission, underscoring the importance of the Commission’s role in empowering citizens to hold their leaders accountable and participate meaningfully in governance.
“As you take on this noble responsibility, I want to reiterate the full support of the government in your endeavors. We are committed to providing you with the resources and institutional backing needed to fulfill your mandate effectively. Your work will be pivotal in empowering citizens with the information they need to hold their leaders accountable and to participate meaningfully in our democracy.
“I am confident that under your stewardship, the ATI Act, 2021, will not just be a piece of legislation on paper, but a living, breathing force for good in our society. The people of The Gambia are looking up to you to safeguard their right to information, and I have no doubt that you will rise to this challenge with integrity, diligence, and a profound sense of duty,” he said.
Newly appointed Chairperson Neneh MacDouall-Gaye, a former broadcaster and foreign minister, expressed her gratitude to the government for the trust placed in the Commissioners, pledging their commitment to the task.
The ATI Commissioners include:
- Neneh MacDouall-Gaye, Chairperson
- Babucarr Cham, General Manager of City Limits Radio
- Bai Emil Touray, former President of the Gambia Press Union (GPU)
- John Charles Njie, former Chairperson of TANGO
- Ya Amie Touray, Legal Practitioner