“In the pursuit of justice and the safeguarding of our collective conscience, the National Youth Parliament urges the President to revisit this decision with the utmost gravity it demands. Society's faith in the justice system and the sanctity of human rights must not be compromised, even in the noble pursuit of rehabilitation and reconciliation. This appeal serves as a resounding reminder that the pillars of democracy are fortified by upholding the principles of justice, transparency, and the inalienable rights of every citizen,” it stated in a statement.
“The Gambia has over the past months taken significant steps in the advancement of the gains of our transitional justice process, a significant aspect of which is taking reasonable steps for the protection of all women and girls from all forms of violence.”
“Already, victims of rape have over the years found it quite challenging to report their matters due to the manner in which society treats them. Thus, this move will only discourage more victims to stay muted instead of reporting their alleged perpetrators, knowing that they might end up receiving presidential pardons even when they are convicted,” it further stated.
“Equally, in our quest for justice and peaceful co-existence, it is unthinkable to reintroduce those that have been convicted of murder into our society without undergoing the punishment they deserve and with the victims’ families watching them helplessly live their lives whiles they continue to mourn their loss.”
“While we understand that victims’ families might have been consulted before the signing of such pardons, it is important to emphatically note that the immense power, influence and values vested in the government and religious leaders would make it almost impossible for any victim’s family to say no to any plea from their end. Therefore, such consultation may not be considered sufficient to inform such a huge decision.”
The NYP thus acknowledges the need for compassion but denounces the inclusion of those that are convicted of murder and rape among the pardoned without vivid explanations of the reasons guiding such decisions, considering the sensitive nature of these steps and the plight of victims both directly and indirectly affected.
“The lack of clarity on the reasons behind these pronouncements raises serious questions. The public is deeply concerned, and rightfully so, as this move poses a potential threat to societal harmony and risks setting a perilous precedent where violent crimes may be trivialised,” it pointed out, while urging the president to critically do a background check on prisoners before any pardon.
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