By: Kemo Kanyi
A group of four opposition parties has jointly called on the government to uphold fundamental democratic principles as enshrined in the Gambia’s constitution.
The opposition groups made the call on Friday during a press conference held at Serges Hotel in Senegambia. The four groups consist of APP-SOBEYA of Essa Faal, Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC), People’s Alliance Party (PAP) and National Unity Party (NUP).
Addressing the joint press conference on behalf of the opposition groups, Essa Mbaye Faal demanded for the government to respect the inalienable rights of Gambians. He said the assets of Jammeh were integral to the nation’s wealth and their disposal without public knowledge or consent raised urgent questions about government’s transparency and accountability.
”The public’s demand for the release of government’s paper detailing the nature, sale, and beneficiaries of these assets is a rightful assertion of sovereignty over governance,” Mr Faal highlighted.
He said a group of young Gambians wanted to exercise their constitutional right to peaceful assembly by applying for police permit to protest lawfully, arguing that the government’s denial of the permit and the subsequent arrest of the young citizens represented a significant affront to The Gambia’s democratic ideals.
“The 1997 Constitution of the Gambia guarantees every citizen the right to freedom of assembly and association, a fundamental pillar of our democracy. As the opposition, we are the custodians of the aspirations of Gambians who yearn for a just and transparent society. Those who protest are not agitators but embodiments of hope for a Gambia that respects the will of the people,” he reiterated.
Meanwhile, the four opposition parties demanded that the government must respect the constitutional rights of the people, including the right to peaceful protest and freedom of expression.
They also demanded transparency regarding the assets of the former president with detailed reports on their sale and buyers and meaningful dialogue between the government and stakeholders, including the youth and civil society, to address public grievances.
The opposition groups add that the path of repression leads to division and unrest, adding that the Gambia they envision is one where every voice is heard and valued.