Human rights advocate Madi Jobarteh has called for the immediate resignation or removal of Seedy Njie, Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly and deputy spokesman of the ruling National People’s Party (NPP), accusing him of making tribalistic comments that violate the Constitution and threaten national unity.
Jobarteh demanded that Njie “step down or be removed” following the circulation of an audio recording allegedly capturing the deputy speaker at a private meeting in his residence with the father of Omar P. Jallow and other officials. Jobarteh said the remarks, if authentic, constitute gross misconduct, abuse of power, and hate speech, warranting Njie’s exit from public office.
Jobarteh argued that Njie’s comments targeted individuals based on their Mandinka ethnicity and perceived support for the opposition United Democratic Party (UDP). He specifically referenced Njie’s alleged confession of causing the dismissal of former GRTS staff member Abubacarr Darboe and threats against Ousman Ceesay, a permanent secretary at the Office of the Vice President, on ethnic and political grounds.
“The despicable comments violate the Constitution, human rights, and undermine the integrity and reputation of not only the position of Deputy Speaker but also the entire National Assembly,” Jobarteh stated.
He cited multiple constitutional provisions, including Section 212 on Directive Principles of State Policy, which calls for national unity without discrimination, and Section 222 on the duties of public officers, which prohibits nepotism, favoritism, and actions prejudicial to others’ rights.
Jobarteh further accused Njie of abusing his position by interfering in official functions and punishing citizens for hosting opposition figures at community events.
“To be a Mandinka and a UDP supporter is not a crime,” he emphasized, noting that the Mandinka form the largest ethnic group in The Gambia. “Denying a Mandinka person a position in government is an assault on the dignity of all Gambians.”
The advocate invoked Sections 91 and 93 of the Constitution, urging National Assembly members to invoke their powers to remove Njie for contempt and misconduct. He described Njie’s alleged actions as incitement to division and a threat to social cohesion, warning that silence would endanger national stability.
Jobarteh contrasted Njie’s past service under the former APRC dictatorship with the UDP’s role in resisting, calling any discrimination against UDP members “most disgusting.” He labeled Njie a “tribalist” and “dangerous buffoon” who previously opposed the 2016 election verdict that brought President Adama Barrow to power.
The leaked audio has sparked widespread discussion on social media and among Gambian political observers, though Njie has not yet issued a public response. Calls for accountability have grown, with Jobarteh urging citizens and lawmakers to defend constitutional values and national unity.
“As an attack on one ethnic group is an attack on all,” Jobarteh concluded, “citizens with conscience must not stay silent.”
