Former VP Tambajang demands answers on stadium funds, security reform and justice delays

By Alieu Jallow

Former Gambian Vice President Fatoumatta Jallow Tambajang has challenged the government to account for funds allocated to the country’s main football stadium, while also pressing for urgent reforms in security, justice and governance.

Speaking at an event titled A Chat with Youth Influencers, Tambajang said part of the OIC infrastructure budget was earmarked for a modern stadium, alongside support from the Confederation of African Football (CAF), but upgrades never materialised.

“CAF has given funding for the stadium. So where is the money? This is why we need an accountable government. Whatever comes in for the people must go to the people,” she said.

Tambajang also questioned the continued presence of ECOMIG forces, arguing their deployment has long outlived its purpose and undermines the morale of Gambian soldiers. She pledged to prioritise security sector reform if elected as president in 2026.

“In a democratisation process, what we needed was a proper security sector reform. Many officers would have retired by age, others would have been deployed for peacekeeping, and we would have had a well-resourced, efficient force. You walk into some police stations, and they tell you they don’t even have a vehicle or fuel. We have to fix that,” she said.

She vowed to revive the push for a new constitution, describing it as the foundation for stronger governance and internal democracy within political parties, with women’s empowerment a crucial element. “The constitution is going to be a priority. Without a democratic constitution, there’s no way we can build internal democracy in political parties,” she noted.

Tambajang voiced frustration over delays in the justice system, saying detainees spend years in jail without trial despite the 72-hour constitutional limit. She promised a complete overhaul of the prison system, stressing it should rehabilitate rather than harden offenders.

“We’re all liable to go to prison. You don’t go to prison only because you’re a criminal. You can be a political detainee or fall foul of the law. Prison shouldn’t turn people into hardcore criminals. It should provide skills so that when they return to their communities, they can contribute meaningfully,” she said.

Outlining her vision for her first 100 days in office, Tambajang said she would focus on policy formulation, assembling a competent cabinet and setting clear national strategies. She also pledged to revive a national Think Tank, an initiative she said she introduced during her time in government.

 By Alieu Jallow Former Gambian Vice President Fatoumatta Jallow Tambajang has challenged the government to account for funds allocated to the country’s main football stadium, while also pressing for urgent reforms in security, justice and governance. Speaking at an event titled A Chat with Youth Influencers, Tambajang said part of the OIC infrastructure budget was The Fatu Network