To: Chief of Staff Mod CeesayOffice of the PresidentState House, Banjul

Subject: Misuse of Public Funds – Medical Expenses for the President’s Mother

Dear Chief of Staff Ceesay,

I am writing to express serious concern regarding the recent directive for the Central Bank of The Gambia to release over five million dalasis to cover the medical expenses of President Adama Barrow’s mother.

While we all wish the President’s mother good health and access to proper medical care, it is both unjustifiable and deeply troubling that such a personal expense is being paid for with public funds. President Barrow, as head of state, earns a monthly salary of over D500,000 in addition to D150,000 in fish money. With such considerable earnings, he is more than capable of covering his mother’s medical expenses from his own resources—just like any responsible family member in a position of means.

This decision is particularly disheartening in the face of growing economic hardship in our country. Public hospitals remain under-resourced, and thousands of young Gambians are struggling with unemployment and lack of access to basic services. At a time when national development should be prioritized, using taxpayer money for personal matters at this scale is not only unethical, but it also violates the trust of the Gambian people.

It is important to stress that the focus should not be on how the document was leaked. What truly matters is the principle of transparency and accountability. Gambians have a right to know how public funds are being used. They deserve leadership that upholds integrity and puts the nation above personal interests.

Furthermore, it appears contradictory that the President frequently boasts of building numerous hospitals and claims that citizens from other African countries are coming to The Gambia for medical treatment—yet chooses to send his own mother abroad for care, at the nation’s expense. This raises serious questions about the quality and confidence in our own healthcare system, and the sincerity of such public statements.

This letter serves as a firm call for reflection and correction. The Gambian people are watching closely, and they demand responsible governance, transparency, and justice in the handling of public funds.

Sincerely,
Lamin Samateh
Norway