As
the political impasse is finally laid to rest with the departure of the former
president, Yahya Jammeh, Gambians from all walks of life have begun to express
their expectation from the new government of President Adama Barrow.
Njundu
Drammeh, national coordinator of Child Protection Alliance (CPA), said the new
government’s endeavours should include the promotion, protection and
fulfillment of the human rights of all people.
It
should establish institutions such as an anti-corruption commission and a truth
and reconciliation commission, he said.
Mr
Drammeh noted that the new government should also undo all bad laws put in
place by the Jammeh government and ensure that all public bodies and officials
are transparent and accountable.
In
that regard, he said, the notorious National Intelligence Agency (NIA) should
be revamped and be made “truly responsible and accountable”.
He
also suggested that there should be “a regular interface” between the
government and the people on the state television and there should be a special
ministry to be responsible for children’s issues.
Mr
Drammeh said Gambians should never again tolerate tyranny and human rights
violations either by the state or individuals.
Mama
Singhateh, charcoal seller at Serrekunda market, said Gambians should give
chance to the new president and obey the laws of the land.
An
America-based Gambian, Binta Ceesay, said The Gambia is at a rough edge, having
“been wounded for so long”.
“I
would expect the new government to lead an effective healing process,” she
said.
That
aside, Ms Singhateh said she expects the government to do more developments in
the areas of education and other areas geared towards economic development such
as boosting the private sector businesses by giving them the opportunity to
open up and compete healthily.
“I
also expect a media friendly government which opens up the space for media
pluralism especially television,” the American-based Gambian said.
“Besides,
Gambians have to exercise some patience and be ready for reconciliation and
more importantly be ready to put all differences aside and come together to
work in the process of rebuilding the nation.”
The
young lady pointed out that whosoever has an expertise in any area should be
ready to play a role to push the nation forward.
She
said the new government should be given chance to work for a better, more
democratic, free and peaceful Gambia.
Sainabou
Ceesay, a second year student at the University of The Gambia, said: “I expect
the government to provide employment based on qualification, not on the basics
of whom you know;
the
right people should be put at the right place.
“All
forms of favoritism and tribalism should be eradicated. The new government should fulfill every
promise that they made to the people and respect the constitution.”
