Two respected senior counsels, Lamin Mboge and Omar F M’Bai, yesterday paid a courtesy call on Chief Justice Edrissa MO Faal to offer solidarity and public backing following his appointment.
Speaking after the meeting, Omar F M’Bai thanked the Gambia Law Society president for arranging the visit and for holding a press briefing that, he said, clarified that the legal profession is not united in opposing the appointment. M’Bai described the briefing as “timely and important,” adding that it recorded “a legitimate and independently held legal view in support of the constitutional process” that resulted in Faal’s elevation.
M’Bai warmly congratulated Chief Justice Faal on his appointment, noting the new head of the Judiciary’s “distinguished record of some forty years of successful legal practice” and substantial judicial experience abroad. He said those credentials give Gambian lawyers confidence that Faal will bring “independence, learning, fairness and sound judgment” to the office.
On a personal note, M’Bai recalled Faal’s past pro bono assistance in a racial-discrimination matter in Raleigh, North Carolina, a gesture he said demonstrated Faal’s commitment to justice beyond professional duty.
“We wish you wisdom, courage and strength as you discharge the enormous responsibilities of your office,” M’Bai said, underlining the judiciary’s role as a guardian of constitutional order and pledging the visitors’ “goodwill and principled support.”
The visit and public endorsement come amid legal challenges to Faal’s appointment, which have divided opinion within the Gambian legal community.