#National News

CPG questions government’s foreign policy amidst deaths of Gambians abroad

Apr 18, 2024, 11:55 AM | Article By: Jankey Ceesay

The Coalition of Progressive Gambians (CPG), a civil society organisation has questioned government's foreign policy amid recent deaths of Gambians in Egypt and Germany and the inhumane treatment meted out to Gambians deported from Germany.

In a recent statement released by signed by Celestine Kujabi, Secretary General of CPG, the body called on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to come out and explain to Gambians the reasons for the deaths and inhumane treatment of Gambians abroad and deportees as well. 

“In the 21st century where international law and order in line with human rights is advocated globally, it is disappointing and disheartening to see the gross violation of human rights by custodians of the laws in those countries that champion the advocacy of human rights.” he said.

“It's time for the Ministry to redefine The Gambia's foreign policy and ensure proper agreements in line with mutual respect put in place and the right personnel deployed to represent The Gambia's interest.”

The release further revealed that Foreign Affairs is the Ministry that defines the Gambian image and likeness internationally and must be defined with highest degree of moral attitudes, ‘ethics and values.’

“Moreover, this is the ministry that can buy us international recognition and respect. We are living in the century where there are no longer subjects and our sovereignty must never be compromised. Countries must treat and regard each other as partners irrespective of size or population,”

“We therefore, expect our government to regard every Gambian as life is sacred, dear and very important. Gambians’ tolerance and smiles must not be abused. The authorities of those countries that failed our cordial relationship and acceptable values must be held responsible and questioned for their negligence and lack of concern and respect for human rights.”

The CPG, the release added, therefore calls on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to consult with those countries to put a stop to the recurrence of these unfortunate situations.

“The maltreatment of Gambians in other countries such as Morocco, Tunisia, Libya, Germany and the intrusion of Senegal in our internal security in recent years has questioned our foreign policy and sovereignty. The government of The Gambia really needs a total overhaul of our foreign policy and personnel attached to foreign service to regain our international integrity and respect.”