Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Seedy S.K. Njie, has apologised to President Adama Barrow and former minister Lamin Queen Jammeh over remarks made in a private conversation that was later circulated publicly.

He said the discussion was never intended for public release and expressed regret over any embarrassment caused.

“I sincerely regret that outcome. No disrespect was intended,” he said.

Njie denied allegations that he is anti-Mandinka or holds tribalist views, describing the claims as “completely inconsistent” with his personal and public life.

He pointed to his family background and long-standing relationships with members of the Mandinka community, including his first wife.

He also rejected claims that he had sought ethnic-based appointments within the security services.

“I have never contacted the Inspector General of Police to request appointments on ethnic grounds,” he said.

Njie said his public service has always been guided by competence and professionalism rather than ethnic identity.

He called for national unity and urged Gambians to avoid ethnic divisions in public discourse.

He also issued an apology to citizens for any wrongdoing during his public service.

By Adama Makasuba