In any difficult circumstance, brokering dialogue is sacrosanct in finding common ground. The recent development in the Kombo North community of Mandinary leaves much to be desired. It is regrettable and we extend our condolences to the bereaved family. In any situation where life has been lost calls for careful and just approach. Life is precious and when it’s lost, it is gone.
However, it is important communities especially youth are sensitised on peacebuilding initiatives. Being the most able-bodied and active in any country are the ones better positioned to lead that campaign.
Let’s acknowledge the fact that youth people today have a voice unlike any other generations. The United Nations Security Council Resolutions on Youth, Peace and Security
On a broader perspective, The Gambia is at a critical stage after almost 20 years of brutal dictatorship of President Jammeh. Under the current demonstration dispensation, the country is undergoing a reform process which cuts across all sectors, especially its security sector.
From institutional reforms to the security sector, The Gambia has embarked on a major-reform to ensure that collectively we build a better nation.
For instance, the objectives of this Security Sector Reforms (SSR), is to entrench democratic practices that uphold the principles of good governance and justice system in line with international conventions, treaties and best practices; to ensure a fully integrated and effective coordination of the security sector at national, regional and district levels; as well as to ensure civilian management and oversight bodies execute their functions in a robust, effective and efficient manner and in conformity with relevant legal and policy frameworks.
This is indeed a significant milestone development in view of the era the country just emerged from. And once implemented would significantly help reposition the country on right footings.
In view of this, it is high time security personnel bear in mind the civilians are not their enemies. In fact, together, they are all from a larger Gambian community.
They should also remember that peacebuilding is key and important in any peaceful coexistence. Many scholars agreed that peacebuilding is not just the absence of violence, it is a constant effort to create longstanding peace. It can be through dialogue, reconciliation, education, trust building and so on.
Let’s always bear in mind that The Gambia is a very small country inhabited by peace loving citizens. This, to a large extent, is even visible in our social gatherings. More importantly, we are all related directly or indirectly and the people's intermarry is a value that continues to guide and even cement our relations.
However, in any difficult circumstances it is always important we pursue avenues that will bring people together, rather than separate us. What has happened was indeed uncalled for, but let’s pursue peace to arrive at a just conclusion.