Gambia: UN Special Representative commends Gambia's political process

14 Septembre 2017

BANJUL,  Gambia, September 14 (Infosplusgabon) -  United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Representative Mohamed Ibn Chambas  has commended the Gambian government’s initiative to embark on important political process, and renewed the UN’s commitment to support the endeavour along with other partners.

Speaking here Wednesday at the launch of the government's security sector reform project Mr. Chambas said that the reform process ought to be inclusive and participatory, with the aim of making justice and security institutions accessible and responsive to the needs and rights of all Gambians.

Meanwhile, ECOWAS Ambassador to The Gambia, Vabah Gayflor, remarked that the regional grouping was proud of President Adama Barrow and the efforts of his administration in the restoration of democracy in the country.

She added that The Gambia could not afford to fail, and that when its security sector reform is implemented, it would serve as the security sector reform template to follow in Africa.

Noting that there was a lot of work to be done with limited resources, Gayflor urged partners to fulfill their promise to The Gambia.

EU Ambassador Attila Lajos said security sector reform in The Gambia faced deep-seated challenges after 22 years of a repressive regime.

Underlining the country’s stability as an important factor, he said that reforming the security sector was a key priority to stabilising democracy and making The Gambia a human rights champion.

He noted that coordination and timely sequencing by the partners was of paramount importance.

President Adama Barrow observed that the reforms initiated are to ensure an effective and accountable security sector under democratic control, with full respect for human rights, the rule of law, and fundamental principles of good governance.

He also noted that the importance of reforming and transforming the country’s security sector aims to make it functional and effective so that it delivers for the good of the Gambian people.

“The security sector reform process will enable us to once again take charge of our own security and destiny,” he pointed out.

FIN/INFOSPLUSGABON/IOL/GABON 2017

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