One Alhagie Samboujang Dibba of Bundung Serrekunda collapsed Tuesday while approaching President Yahya Jammeh from a distance. The President tried to help him regain consciousness but was later pronounced dead.

In an interview shortly afterwards the President said that he had spotted the man at a distance and knew his intentions were motivated by hate but that he was better prepared for any eventuality.

Meanwhile President Jammeh has warned public officials to deliver or risk being sacked. The President made his remarks at the end of a surprise visit to assess the state of facilities and infrastructure within the tourism industry. The President deplored the dilapidated conditions of facilities at the craft market and tourist car park in Kotu.

He said the Gambia Tourism Authority (GTA) has been found wanting in its core responsibilities to set standards and classify hotels and related facilities and services in the tourism sector. President Jammeh said that even advanced countries are competing for tourists and, given the importance of the tourism industry in The Gambia, it is unacceptable that such a state of affairs should exist. As a matter of urgency, the President issued directives for the reconstruction of the Kotu craft and vendors market as well as the car park.

The President used the opportunity to emphasise his love for all Gambians regardless of political and other partisan considerations.