Training of Trainers for Citizen Election observers ends

The training for youth came at a time when the country is making preparations ahead of December 4th Presidential Election.

At the closing, Robert Gerenge, principal adviser to election management bodies at African Union Commission, said investing in young people has a long lasting and long term dividend.

He expressed optimism that participants would use the skills and knowledge acquired to contribute not only to the electoral integrity of the country but also to the democracy and development of the country.

He reminded that the continent has a lot of experience, saying ‘we have a lot to learn from each other.’

Also speaking, Bakary Y. Badjie, Minister of Youth and Sports said youth political participation is very important; not just being followers and supporters of politicians, but by being active politicians.

Minister Badjie explained that the training could not have come at a better time than now when The Gambia will be holding presidential elections on December 4th to be followed by parliamentary elections in April 2022.

He assured that The Gambia Government under President Barrow is committed to ensuring free, fair, peaceful and transparent elections come December.

 According to him, since the advent of the new government, emphasis has been laid on the participation of young people in national development including political processes.

“It’s my belief that young people will be able to participate in the political processes of the country beyond voting.”

Minister Badjie reminded that it is our responsibility to maintain decorum as we head for December elections. “The country belongs to all of us and whatever we do, we must ensure peace for those who come after us as peace is expensive and we must never play it down.”      

In his vote of thanks, Sanaba Jawla, on behalf of participants thanked facilitators of the training, assuring that the knowledge gained would be utilised to ensure The Gambia registers credible elections this year.