Hamat N.K. Bah, Minister of Lands, Regional Government and Religious Affairs, has raised concern over prolonged delays in the resolution of cases handled by district chiefs, revealing that some disputes have remained unresolved for up to five years.

Addressing traditional leaders and community representatives, Minister Bah stressed the importance of the judicial role played by chiefs in maintaining peace and delivering justice at the community level.

“We task the Paramount Chief and all the chiefs in this country to maintain peace and stability and to do justice to everybody while performing their judicial functions,” he said.

“One of your functions is judicial, so we urge you to do justice. Everybody in this country needs justice.”

He expressed concern that several cases brought before traditional authorities had remained unresolved for years, warning that such delays undermine public confidence in local justice systems.

“It is unfortunate that some cases brought before chiefs have remained unresolved for three, four, and even five years,” he noted.

He assured that government remains committed to strengthening traditional leadership structures and improving their capacity to deliver effective services to communities across the country.

He also disclosed that President Adama Barrow has directed a review of salaries and allowances for chiefs, including Paramount Chiefs, as part of efforts to enhance efficiency and service delivery.

“Be rest assured that it is the President’s wish to make sure that this office is functional, effective and efficient for better service delivery,” he said.

He added that the inauguration of the new Paramount Chief forms part of broader efforts to reinforce traditional governance systems, which continue to play a key role in conflict resolution, local administration, and community development across The Gambia.

By Adama Makasuba