Africa-Press – Gambia. The National Assembly member for Foni Bintang Karanai and leader of the United Gambian Front (UGF), Bakary K. Badjie, has called on the government to review the presence of Senegalese soldiers along the Buwiam highway following a fatal road accident that claimed the life of a Gambian citizen.
Speaking yesterday, Badjie expressed sorrow over the death of Abdoulie Badjie of Kappa Village, describing the incident in Buwiam as “tragic and sudden.” He extended condolences to the bereaved family on behalf of himself, his party, and the people of Foni.
“I speak today with a heavy heart,” Badjie said. “This tragedy has once again reminded us that every Gambian life matters. May Allah grant our brother Jannah and give his family the strength to endure this painful loss.”
The lawmaker also raised concerns about the continued deployment of Senegalese troops at military checkpoints along the Buwiam highway, questioning why foreign forces remain in civilian areas without a clear explanation to the Gambian public.
“One question that remains unanswered is why Senegalese soldiers, with large military installations, are still positioned on a major highway in Buwiam,” he said, noting that previous inquiries to the authorities have not yielded satisfactory responses.
Badjie said the presence of the troops has become a “serious security and safety concern” for residents of Foni, particularly in Buwiam, where communities have long protested the arrangement. He added that the situation has caused fear, disrupted daily life, and, in some cases, led to loss of life.
He noted that questions have been submitted to relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Defence, seeking clarification on the deployment of the troops, but that no clear answers have been provided.
“The silence from those responsible is unacceptable,” Badjie said, stressing that the failure to address public concerns amounts to negligence.
The UGF leader renewed calls for the withdrawal of ECOWAS forces, particularly Senegalese troops, citing the need to safeguard national sovereignty, peace, and the safety of citizens.
“Unfortunately, forces brought in to protect lives and property are now being associated with incidents that result in loss of lives,” he said.
Badjie urged the government, led by the NPP, to take urgent action, warning that continued inaction could worsen public frustration and undermine trust. He emphasized that protecting Gambian lives must remain a national priority, regardless of location or political affiliation.
“This tragedy is painful and avoidable,” he said. “The government must act now and stop ignoring incidents that continue to claim innocent lives.”
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