Chief of Defence Staff of the Gambia Armed Forces, Major General Ousman Gomez, has issued a strong warning to soldiers against tribalism and political involvement as the country prepares for the December 2026 presidential election.

Major General Gomez delivered the warning during his first nationwide tour of military installations since assuming leadership of the Gambia Armed Forces.

Addressing troops at Delta Company, Njongon Military Post of the 2 Infantry Battalion, the CDS said the military must remain united, professional and politically neutral as it prepares to support the police in maintaining security during the elections.

He declared zero tolerance for ethnic divisions within the armed forces.

“There is a cancer that tries to eat away armies, especially in Africa, tribalism,” Major General Gomez told the troops.

“I am ordering you directly, desist from tribalism or tribal sentiments. In this uniform, we do not see Mandinka, Fula, Wolof, or Jola. We see soldiers. We see Gambians. We see brothers and sisters in arms.”

The CDS warned that any member of the armed forces found promoting ethnic or regional divisions would face disciplinary action.

“Our only tribe is the Gambia Armed Forces,” he said.

Major General Gomez also drew a clear line between the political rights of soldiers as citizens and their responsibilities as members of the military.

As preparations intensify for the upcoming presidential election, he said soldiers are being trained for Internal Security Operations but must not participate in partisan political activities.

“You will not attend political rallies unless on official duties,” he warned.

The CDS reminded troops that they are servants of the state and said anyone who crosses the line into partisan political activity would be held accountable.

He said members of the GAF retain their constitutional right to vote but stressed that the military’s role during the election will primarily be to support the police when required.

Major General Gomez also urged soldiers to respect human rights and maintain good relations with civilians.

“You are protectors of the people, not their oppressors,” he said, instructing troops to treat civilians with respect and dignity whether on or off duty.

He said the trust of Gambians remains critical to the reputation of the armed forces and warned that the actions of a few individuals should not damage the institution’s standing.

The CDS also cautioned soldiers against unauthorised use of social media, warning that the disclosure of operational, administrative or internal GAF information would constitute a serious breach of discipline.

He said the Directorate of Press and Public Relations is responsible for speaking on behalf of the armed forces and instructed personnel not to publish information about military movements, operations or internal affairs on personal accounts.

Alongside the warnings on discipline and professionalism, Major General Gomez announced measures aimed at improving the welfare and operational capacity of troops.

He said the government is working to address accommodation challenges in military barracks, stressing that soldiers deserve dignity in their living conditions.

He also announced that the first consignment of new digital camouflage uniforms had arrived and was being distributed, with combat boots and other equipment expected in a second consignment.

On career progression, the CDS said promotion boards would be convened immediately to consider deserving officers and soldiers.

He further announced plans to provide 10 new patrol vehicles to improve military mobility, particularly as the country approaches the elections.

Major General Gomez said the nationwide tour is intended to assess operational readiness, listen directly to troops about their living and working conditions and strengthen confidence within the armed forces.

He also met with community leaders and regional administrators as part of efforts to strengthen civil-military relations.

Addressing communities hosting GAF installations, the CDS said the military remains committed to peace, security and stability and would work with civilian authorities to ensure a peaceful and orderly electoral environment.

He told troops that the Gambia Armed Forces must demonstrate that it is a modern, disciplined and professional force capable of meeting national security challenges while remaining united under one flag.

“Carry out your duties with honour. Serve with pride, and always remember that the people need to trust us,” Major General Gomez said.

By Adama Makasuba