Lack of progress: Gambia Music Union dissolve interim set up

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By BAKARY CEESAY

Gambia Music Union, GAMU has been dissolved and five member steering committee was elected at a congress recently Manduar Development Hub in West Coast Region of The Gambia to oversee its affairs within three months.

Artists and stakeholders tasked the committee to review and draft a new constitution before the end of the three months.

After the three months period, elections will take place to determine the official executive of the GAMU.

Apparently dissatisfied with setup’s lack of progress, delegates opted to dissolve Jaliba Kuyateh’s tenure and constituted an interim body now headed by Gibril Bala-Gaye who is elected to serve as President of the Music Union , Ali Baba Ace Cham as Secretary General , Pa Modou Sarr, Ensa Colley, alias Worldvibe General & Lizzy as executive members.

As per the mandate of the National Centre for Arts and Culture’s Department of Literature, Performing and Fine Arts support to artistic associations, today’s generation of artist decided to take the responsibility of dictating how they want things done when it comes to their music industry.

Legendary Gambian musician Jaliba Kuyateh has ceased to be leader of GAMU.

The Brikama-based kora star was elected to replace Dr. Oliver Mboge three years ago when the predecessor’s reign was criticised for failing to take the union beyond its low level.

Jaliba promised to overhaul running of the body in his victory speech flanked by his executives.

However, barely three years into his reign delegates grew frustrated over the veteran’s administration characterised by absenteeism during top level union meetings with Kuyateh often busy traveling abroad.

Gibril Bala-Gaye, elected President said the generation’s artists have decided to take the responsibility of dictating how they want things done when it comes to their music industry.

He explained that during the congress, “we discussed issues we are facing as artistes and also decide to dissolve the old executive and start from scratch.”

“Thank you my brothers and sisters for putting your trust in me to lead this journey. As at now I,Gibril Bala-Gaye has been elected to serve as President. It’s going to be a lot of work but we’re ready for it. Wish us luck,” Gibril popularly called Gee said.

Ali Cham, alias Killa Ace, Secretary General pointed that it is a major challenge but they must take responsibility in one way or another to bring about the true change they’ve been yearning for.

“Thank you all the artists and stakeholders for entrusting us with such responsibility. Together we can change the dynamics,”