The Chief Justice (CJ) made this remark at the 2nd Gambia National Dialogue.
The dialogue focuses on the important theme of “solidarity for self- reliance and national development”. It touches on the core issue of unity. And it comes on the eve of celebrations to mark the diamond jubilee of the independence of this nation which was attained on the 18th February 1965.
"Our last dialogue here in this great hall aptly named after the founding father and founding President of the Nation, Alhaji Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara, who devoted his life to the unity, peace and progress of this country and who proved wrong the sceptics of our survival as a sovereign nation, we agreed on a number of important matters. Amongst them that dialogue needs to be a continuous process and not a one-off event," he stated.
According to him, the gathering was an indication of the commitment and adherence to that decision. "We were also able to identify the core values of our community, values which we consider cannot be compromised; amongst them a commitment to the rule of law, justice, democracy, peace and social economic progress".
He noted that these commitments should remain immutable and should continue to be the anchor, the foundation to build upon and indeed the compass for steering the nation towards greater heights.
The country’s chief judge described solidarity as an important element of nationhood. "Small as our nation maybe, it is nonetheless as diverse as those states which are much bigger than us. Like all states, we feature diverse religions, tribes, races etc. Diversity provides challenges. But it also provides opportunities".
He indicated that diversity is a wealth which when properly tapped enriches a nation and provides a strong springboard for peace and development.
He advised Gambians to be more committed and continue to work towards enhancing, securing and indeed advancing national solidarity and foster a state of oneness, of togetherness, of unity amongst themselves.
He urged all Gambians to continue to pray and to strive for the continued peace, progress and prosperity of The Gambia.
