| Alhagie Mustapha Carrayole, the newly appointed Chairman of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) was yesterday sworn-in at a ceremony held at State House. Subscribing to the Oath of Office, Mr Carayol sworn that he will be faithful and perform his duty without fear, favour, affection or ill-will as enshrined in the Constitution.
He assured President Jammeh that he wills fulfil his obligations as IEC Chairman and commended him for the confidence bestowed on him. He also assured the President that he will ensure that the laws governing his institution are adhered to at all times, noting that he is not new in the field.
In his remarks, President Yahya Jammeh thanked Mr Carroyol for accepting such a challenge as it is a very difficult challenge. He said Mr Carroyol is the pioneer of the IEC who has adequate knowledge in it. He said "as far as I am concern Mr Carroyol has a practical experience of the job."
He then assured him of his continuous support and from all genuine Gambians. ‘What's unacceptable in the IEC is that it cannot be independent from the majority and be dependent on the minority. No one should dictate them. Live up to expectation. It is only you that can determine a winner or a loser in an election. Take your responsibility and let any outsider dictate you,' he warned.
President Jammeh then assured Mr Carroyol of his support and warned against any interference in the IEC duties.
Edward Singhateh, the Secretary of state for Forestry and the Environment congratulated the IEC Chairman for his new appointment and wish him all the best in his duties.
He also advised that it is the obligation and duty of any chairperson of the IEC to not only live up to expectation, but to ensure that there is justice and fair electoral process in The Gambia. He said in the past all the problems the IEC encountered, was created by the IEC itself and President Jammeh has been very patient because as the President and Chairperson of the ruling APRC party, he has never complained about the activities of the IEC. "President Jammeh has always been neutral to ensure that decisions are taken. Even when we complain, he normally tell us not to interfere with the IEC.
He added that President Jammeh is a man of clean heart for humanity and very neutral in the affairs of the IEC. He assured Cabinet's full support to the IEC. |