Gambian leader has reinstated a retired Brigadier General of the Gambian National Army. Brigadier General Alhagie Martin, otherwise known as Ochucks or Lagos, was a former deputy Ambassador to Taiwan who headed the State Guards unit until his removal, retirement and redeployment to the Civil Service two years ago.
Martin is the most senior high-ranking military official at State House right now. It wasn’t clear why President Yahya Jammeh decided to reinstate Brigadier General Martin. Martin is given back his rank and is expected to head the State Guards.
Alhagie Martin has proven to be one of the most trusted and loyal allies of President Jammeh. The duo’s relations dated back to their days in the defunct gendarmerie.
Before his removal, Martin was entrusted with President Jammeh’s personal security. He was accused him of terrorising President Jammeh’s opponents.
In October 2011, Matin told newly promoted non-commissioned officers in Banjul to “sacrifice for their country at whatever cost. It is time for us to nurture extra sacrifice for this country, work for our leader, our people and for our country. The Gambia is what we have. We must also work as a team and family, respect one another. Let us sacrifice and prepare to die for our Commander-in-Chief. As I always said, the revolution is ours, we must defend it whether we like it or not.
“As far as I am concerned, your promotions will be based on hard work, dedication to duty, loyalty to your Commander-in-Chief and sacrifice for your country. I always said over time that everybody cannot be promoted at the same time, but if you want to be promoted, you have to work hard.”
In another development, President Jammeh promoted Major Bahore Jaiteh to Lt. Colonel. He has just returned home after completing masters degree in law in the United Kingdom.
Ends
Checks and balances and early warning signal for so called Co-President Saul Badjie. Saul get ready to be relieve of duties, set-up and/or if lucky deployed overseas.