By: Fatou Dahaba
The National Assembly unanimously confirmed President Adama Barrow’s appointment of Justice Omar MM Njie as a new member of the Judicial Service Commission on March 19.
Justice Minister Dawda Jallow sought permission from the National Assembly to confirm a new commission member.
Minister Jallow explained, “This motion is grounded on the provisions outlined in sections 145 (1) and 145 (2) of the constitution. This assembly is duly informed that President Adama Barrow appointed Justice Njie under section 145 (2) of the constitution following the Lord Chief Justice’s recommendations. Therefore, by section 145 (1), I beg to move for the confirmation of this appointment by this august assembly.”
The Justice Minister highlighted Justice MM Njie’s impressive professional achievements, including his tenure as a judge in the Gambian court system from 2017 to 2020.
He served as president of Gambia’s Court of Appeals from 2020 to May 2022 and was later appointed a Supreme Court Justice.
The motion, seconded by the majority leader, Hon. Billay Tunkara, reaffirms Justice Njie’s long-serving service in the judicial system from 1990 to the present.
Hon. Muhammed Kanteh, the member for Busumbala, said Justice Njie is undoubtedly fit and proper to serve on the commission, which will enhance its service delivery.
The commission advises the president on judicial appointments and recommends terms of service for judges and court staff. As specified in section 147 of the constitution, it also enhances the administration and efficiency of the courts.
