By Momodou Gagigo
The Governor of the Central River Region (CRR), Ousman Bah, has defended his decision to seize the official village stamp from the Alkalo of Nyangen, explaining that the action followed the traditional leader’s admission that he had unlawfully transferred his responsibilities and the stamp to his son.
Speaking to The Alkamba Times, Governor Bah stressed that village authority and custody of official stamps are non-transferable under Gambia’s local administrative framework.
“These are authorities that are not transferable. Even I, as the governor, cannot transfer my stamp to my deputy. Likewise, any authority that has a stamp cannot give it to subordinates to act on their behalf,” he said.
The governor revealed that the Alkalo had been formally invited to his office for clarification, in the presence of the district chief, two senior chiefs, and the deputy governor. During the meeting, the Alkalo reportedly confessed to handing over both the village stamp and his official duties to his son.
“The question was put to the Alkalo, and he confessed that it is true he gave the responsibility to his son to carry out services on his behalf. I told him this is not lawful,” Governor Bah explained.
He added that if the Alkalo felt physically or otherwise unable to discharge his duties personally, he should have formally informed the authorities of appropriate administrative measures to be taken.
“If you think you are not fit to carry out your duties yourself, inform us, and we can see a way around it,” the governor stated.
Following the admission, Governor Bah decided to place the stamp under the temporary custody of the district chief to guarantee uninterrupted access to essential services for Nyangen residents.
“I decided I would take the stamp from him and then asked the chief of the district to stamp for anyone legally in need of the village stamp,” he said.
The governor clarified that the stamp is used for multiple administrative purposes beyond mere attestation and dismissed speculation linking the decision to voter registration.
“The stamp is not only for attestation. It is for various activities that have nothing to do with voter registration. The polling station for that community is in Jamagain, and voter registration there is yet to take place,” he emphasized.
He assured residents that arrangements are already in place for smooth service delivery.
“Currently, the chief has custody of the stamp, and he has the mandate to stamp for anybody in the district. Anyone who needs the stamp can reach out to the chief,” Governor Bah said.
The governor further disclosed that broader consultations are ongoing involving regional authorities, traditional leaders, and the Nyangen community to find a permanent resolution.
“We are working as an institution with the chief and the community to see that the matter is resolved. Someone will be identified in the community who will be acting officially until the issue is settled,” he concluded.
Earlier today, a delegation comprising the village Imam, Village Development Committee (VDC) members, and other community leaders visited the governor’s residence, admitted fault, and appealed for the return of the stamp to a family member.
