The new speaker of the National Assembly, Fabakary Tombong Jatta, has urged elected parliamentarians to be “guided by the supreme interest” of the country.

“While I acknowledge that we are all elected or nominated from various political parties and come from various constituencies, I implore all of us at all times to be guided by the supreme interest of our beloved motherland in dealing with matters tabled before us.

“I trust the experienced members will mentor the new ones. I implore all of us to endeavour and ensure that the rules of debate as enshrined in the Standing Orders of this Assembly are respected and obeyed to the letter. 

“As presiding officer, I intend to be fair to all and therefore seek your understanding in advance,” he said.

“I encourage new entrants to prepare and present statements on matters of the day and apply the Question Time well. Your brilliant visibility will affect your re-election. 

“I will meet with leadership on this and seek the support of the Office of the Clerk to help you deliver. A comprehensive induction process is vital for collective improved performance.

“I need to remind the new members that the highly procedural nature of the National Assembly calls for an equally high level of commitment to the rules and procedures of the institution. 

“Serious learning will therefore have to be undertaken to sharpen your competencies in order to enable all of us function effectively and efficiently.”

The speaker and 57 parliamentarians were sworn into office yesterday for the next five years. 

His appointment has sparked widespread 

among Gambians who accused President Adama Barrow of trying to replicate exiled former President Yahya Jammeh’s style of governance.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba