By: Kebba Ansu Manneh
The family of Lamin Mondo Jatta, Chief of Brikama North District, has firmly rejected media reports claiming he died on 5 November 2026. The reports, which circulated on several platforms less than two hours earlier, prompted an immediate response from relatives and from the chief himself, who confirmed he is alive and recovering from illness.
Alagie Jabbie, a brother-in-law of the chief, told TAT that the reports were “completely false, misleading and far from the truth.” He explained that Mondo Jatta has been unwell but is recovering well, and accused certain elements of deliberately spreading the false news. Jabbie urged media houses to verify information with families before publication, warning that failure to do so damages credibility, erodes public trust, and spreads unnecessary alarm. He described the reports as unethical and said they appeared designed to harm the chief’s relatives, friends and loved ones.
He called on the outlets that published the claims to remove the stories immediately and issue apologies. Jabbie added that Gambians should support one another rather than wish harm on others because of political differences.
Chief Lamin Mondo Jatta also spoke to TAT, describing the reports as a political gimmick intended to distract from National People’s Party (NPP) activities in the West Coast Region. He said those circulating the false news should remember that death eventually comes to everyone. “Unfortunately, people can go this far to wish me dead just because I am supporting the president,” he said. “I wouldn’t wish anyone dead.”
The chief reiterated that he is alive and recovering, and stressed that media organizations must practice responsible journalism, especially during politically sensitive periods, to prevent the spread of false information. He said the reports had caused irreparable damage and unnecessary distress to his family, friends, and associates.
He expressed special thanks to President Adama Barrow for support with his treatment and medication.
