The Gambia’s top defence leadership has changed following the resignation of the former Chief of Defence Staff. President Adama Barrow, Commander-in-Chief of The Gambia Armed Forces (GAF) has approved a new list of senior military appointments.
The appointments under Section 190(1A) of the 1997 Constitution are intended to reinforce the command structure of the Armed Forces as the military continues to pursue its constitutional mandate of protecting The Gambia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and national security.
The reshuffle sees Major General Ousman Gomez appointed as the new Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) at its centre. Gomez, who previously served as Deputy Chief of Defence Staff, succeeds Lieutenant General Mamat O.A. Cham, who resigned from the position in May.
As Chief of Defence Staff, Major General Gomez is the top position in the Armed Forces, with responsibility for the strategic direction, operational readiness, administration and overall command of the military.
President Barrow also confirmed Brigadier General Sait Njie, the former Commander of the Gambia National Army (GNA) as the new Deputy Chief of Defence Staff. In his new position, Brigadier General Njie will assist the Chief of Defence Staff in overseeing military operations, institutional development, and the continued professionalisation of the Armed Forces.
In a further restructuring of the military hierarchy, Brigadier General Yaya Drammeh, previously Commander of the Republican National Guards (RNG), has been appointed Army Commander. He will be responsible for commanding, training and preparing the Army for operations, ensuring it is ready to face the changing security challenges.
In the meantime, Colonel Alagie Sanneh has been recalled from his diplomatic posting as Defence Attaché at the Gambian Permanent Mission to the United Nations and appointed Commander of the Republican National Guards. The unit is tasked with protecting the Presidency and other strategic national installations while supporting the country’s broader security architecture.
According to the Ministry of Defence, the appointments reflect President Barrow’s confidence in the leadership, competence, and professionalism of the newly appointed officers. The ministry said the changes form part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the Armed Forces through continued security sector reforms aimed at building a modern, disciplined, and operationally effective military.
The Ministry congratulated the officers on their appointments and expressed confidence that their experience and commitment to duty would further enhance the effectiveness and professionalism of The Gambia Armed Forces as they assume their new responsibilities.
