Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – President Adama Barrow has made key changes to his cabinet and senior public service appointments, the Office of the President announced on Wednesday.

According to a statement issued by State House, Baboucar Ousmaila Joof, formerly Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment, has been reassigned to head the Ministry of Defence with immediate effect.

In his new role, Baboucar Ousmaila Joof will be tasked with overseeing the country’s defense and security affairs.

Replacing him at Trade is Mr. Modou Ceesay, the outgoing Auditor General, who has been appointed as the new Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment.

The shake-up also extends to the audit institutions. Mr. Amadou Sowe, previously serving as Director of Internal Audit, has been elevated to the position of Auditor General. Meanwhile, Ms. Masireh K. Drammeh takes over as Acting Director of Internal Audit.

The statement clarified that the appointments were made in accordance with Sections 71(1) and 71(3) of the Gambian Constitution, which empower the president to appoint and reassign cabinet ministers.