His Excellency the President Sheikh Professor Alhaji Dr. Yahya AJJ Jammeh has emphasized that it is not his pleasure to dismiss anyone. He made this remark on Friday at Kanilai during the official closing of the two-day special retreat.

President Jammeh informed them that he finds it difficult to dismiss people. "I wish I have no cause to dismiss anybody", he said.

Explaining how he dismisses public officials he said before he does any dismissal he talks to the person either directly or indirectly. He said in most cases he informs the Secretary General to advise the individual.

The President went on to disclose that he does talks to the person concerned for three times before finally taking action noting that the present and former Secretary Generals can bear him witness.

The President stressed that he does not believe in longevity in positions without productivity. He stated that he will only 'cease fire' on dismissals if people stop violating 'the cease agreements'. He finally called for honesty, commitment and dedication towards building a better nation.

The Vice President, Aja Dr. Isatou Njie-Saidy said the discussions at the retreat were very frank and urged cabinet members to collaborate and be committed to address the challenges that were being highlighted.

She recalled that during their last retreat some of them never had work plans and policies in place but that this time they have already worked with the National Planning Commission and came with proper plans, and refocused their activities towards Vision 2020, the PRSP II and the MDGs. The Vice President thanked President Jammeh for giving them the opportunity to become a family irrespective of their status in government.

The Secretary General and Head of the Civil Service, Dr Njogu Bah urged the officials to renew their determination, work as a team, coordinate and re-align their activities and work towards eradicating hunger and poverty. He reiterated President Jammeh's call for the timely and effective implementation of the national blue print adding that they are duty-bound to deliver quality services to the people such as in education, health, and other basic services. He finally urged his colleagues to impart the lessons learned in their respective institutions.

The Permanent Secretary Ministry of Defense, Harry Sambou gave the vote of thanks.

By Alhagi Ceesay