By: Alieu Ceesay
The Gambia Police Force (GPF) held a decoration ceremony at its headquarters in Banjul on Tuesday, formally recognizing the promotion of 156 senior officers as part of the 2025 Promotion Cycle. Officials say the promotion underscored the force’s commitment to professionalism, merit-based advancement, and ongoing security sector reforms.
The promotions spanned various ranks, from Deputy Superintendent of Police to Superintendent, Chief Superintendent, Assistant Commissioner, Commissioner, and, notably, three to Inspector General of Police. In a historic first for the GPF, six officers were elevated to the rank of Assistant Inspector General of Police, a move aimed at bolstering operational strength and leadership across the sector.
Addressing the gathering, Assistant Inspector General of Police for Administration, Ebrima Bah, urged the newly promoted officers to uphold the law and embrace their elevated responsibilities. “We gather here this morning not just to witness a change in ranks, but to celebrate growth, dedication, and leadership within the Gambia Police Force,” he said. Bah reminded them to remain steadfast guardians of the constitution and protectors of human rights, while encouraging innovation to address modern policing challenges. “Be innovative by bringing fresh ideas to tackle the evolving challenges of modern policing.”
The promotions were described as recognition of merit, discipline, and unwavering commitment to citizen safety. The beneficiaries include seasoned investigators, commanders, administrators, and prosecutors with deep expertise in law enforcement.
Inspector General of Police Seedy Muctar Touray, the force’s leader, linked the advancements to broader security reforms aimed at aligning Gambian policing with international best practices. He highlighted progress in gender representation, citing the promotion of a female officer to AIG as evidence of momentum. “In a few years, we will have more female representation at strategic levels. Proof of this is the Gender Promotion Initiative we undertook with DCAF in 2024,” Touray noted.
Touray expressed confidence in the officers’ abilities despite upcoming challenges, reminding them that higher ranks bring greater responsibilities alongside increased pay. “Having worked with some of you directly and reading about the performance of others, I have no doubt about your competence and experience. Nevertheless, I encourage you to redouble your efforts and continue to serve and protect the people of this country.”
This marks the second such decoration ceremony under Touray’s leadership since his appointment in 2024. Previously, on July 10, 2024, he decorated 208 officers across various ranks.
Matarr Ceesay the Deputy Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Interior, stressed the importance of courteous and humble law enforcement. “We must impose the laws of this country with courtesy and humility… A just and reasonable society is not measured by how law enforcement treats the powerful, but how it treats the weak and vulnerable.” He called for loyalty, professionalism, and discipline, noting that the uniform commands respect.
The ceremony was attended by dignitaries, including the Chief of Defence Staff of the Gambia Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Mamat O. Cham; the Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Seedy Njie; and retired Inspectors General, among others.
As the GPF continues its reforms, these promotions signal a renewed focus on building a professional, inclusive, and effective police force dedicated to serving The Gambia’s citizens and residents.
