Gambian President Adama Barrow on Wednesday declared seven days of mourning following the death of Vice President Badara Alieu Joof, who passed away in India.
The Gambian presidency said the official mourning involves flying the national flag at half-mast, signing a book of condolences and prayers, a statement said.
However, «it should not be misinterpreted as a public holiday or absence from work,» as all public institutions and schools remain open.
Hours earlier, Barrow, who called his vice president a «scholar of profound intellect,» expressed his «deep shock and sadness,» conveying «heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, the Gambian nation and residents.»
He also informed that the mortal remains will be exhibited at the National Assembly after his arrival from India, where a state funeral will be held, without giving details about it.
Until his appointment as vice president on May 4, 2022, Joof served in various capacities, including minister of education and permanent secretary in several government ministries, reports the presidential office.
He also served as the World Bank’s director for West and Central Africa for more than a decade, a position he would resign from to assume the Cabinet post in the new political dispensation.
Source: (EUROPA PRESS)
