Opposition leader Musa Ousainou Yali Batchilly has sharply criticized the Adama Barrow administration following the US disabling of the Gambia-flagged M/V Lian Star in the Gulf of Oman, accusing it of enabling corrupt vessel registrations that tarnish the country’s international image.
The Gambia Action Party (GAP) leader, Batchilly, described the May 29 incident as “reckless and shameful,” linking it directly to alleged fraudulent practices within Gambia’s ship registry. The vessel, attempting to reach an Iranian port in violation of the US blockade, ignored over 20 warnings before a US aircraft fired a Hellfire missile into its engine room, leaving it adrift.
“The recent incident in the Gulf of Oman, where a vessel flying our national flag attempted to breach a naval blockade and was disabled by U.S. forces, has brought disgrace and dishonor to our country,” Batchilly stated. “This is a direct result of corrupt practices and dubious arrangements facilitated by government officials who continue to stain the image of The Gambia internationally.”
As Secretary General and Party Leader of GAP, Batchilly demanded immediate disclosure of all registered vessels under the Access to Information Act, including details on foreign ownership. He warned that failure to comply would further expose The Gambia to international shame and undermine national sovereignty.
“This government engages in barbaric and evil actions that compromise the integrity of our nation,” he added. “The Gambia Action Party calls for full transparency and accountability to protect the dignity of our people and the reputation of our country.”
The incident marks the fifth commercial vessel disabled by US forces as part of efforts to enforce the blockade amid a fragile ceasefire with Iran. Gambia operates a popular flag-of-convenience registry that generates revenue but has repeatedly faced scrutiny for inadequate oversight of foreign-owned ships.
Political analysts say the opposition’s statement reflects growing domestic pressure on the Barrow government to reform maritime administration ahead of December elections. Officials in Banjul have yet to issue a detailed response to the GAP demands or the Lian Star case.
