During
a conclave involving a cross section of Cabinet, service chiefs and an
interlocutor for ‘Operation Three Years Jotna’—the movement that plans to host
a demonstration for President Adama Barrow to relinquish power after three
years, The Gambia government says it may eventually grant a peaceful procession
permit to the Jotna movement.
According
to The Gambia government spokesperson, Ebrima G. Sankareh, who attended the
closed-door season, President Barrow urges his government to dIalogue with the
Jotna people because it’s their democratic right to peacefully demonstrate.
According
to Sankareh, the interlocutor had a very cordial, civil and fruitful discussion
with the government team and ultimately every party wants the best for The
Gambia.
The
government spokesperson also allays fear that grips the business community and
members of society concerned about the potential ramifications of
demonstrations during the tourism season. “Following today’s meeting with the
interlocutor, government is reviewing Jotna’s permit application may eventually
grant a peaceful procession permit pending the outcome of a scheduled meeting
with Interior later today”, he said today.
The
issuing of any permit is consistent with government’s position to respect the
protesters’ constitutional rights while equally safeguarding public safety and
security. Therefore, the business community, diplomatic missions and the larger
community are all assured that their safety and security remain paramount,
Sankareh said.
