The Gambia Action Party (GAP) has withdrawn recognition of Basamba Drammeh and warned him to stop presenting himself as its leader, flagbearer or representative. Drammeh on Tuesday announced his endorsement of the main opposition United Democratic Party (UDP). But the decision does not seem to please the GAP leadership.
In a firm press release, GAP said Drammeh’s appointment as flagbearer was withdrawn just four days after its announcement over conduct, failure to honour commitments and actions inconsistent with the party’s values.
The party said it handled the matter internally out of respect for family relationships and to avoid personal confrontation. GAP said it has retained records and evidence on the circumstances that led to the decision.
“Drammeh is out. He is no longer flagbearer and holds no leadership or representative authority within GAP. He has no mandate to endorse any political party, candidate or political arrangement in the name of GAP.”
The party argued that if Drammeh wishes to support or endorse the United Democratic Party (UDP) or any other organisation, he is free to do so in his personal capacity.
“He must not present it as GAP’s position, endorsement or decision. Servant Musa Ousainou Yali Batchilly remains Party Leader and Secretary General. He has never resigned, stepped down or transferred leadership authority to any individual since the registration of the party.”
GAP also rejected claims that Batchilly is refusing to return to The Gambia.
The party described the claims as unfounded, saying Batchilly continues to travel in and out of The Gambia attending to business interests and living his life. “There is no basis for portraying his movements as running away from his country. Being outside the country at any particular time does not amount to abandoning political responsibilities, surrendering leadership or relinquishing constitutional position within a party,” GAP said.
The party warned it will not allow rumours, misrepresentation or individual actions to rewrite its institutional history or create confusion about its legitimate leadership.
“Respect for family relationships should never be interpreted as permission to misrepresent the Party or undermine its authority,” GAP said.
“The leadership of GAP is not vacant, its identity has not changed, and its authority has not been transferred.”
The party said it has also withdrawn its plan to nominate Ba Samba Drammeh since on the 2nd of November.
