There is a strong political will in Gambia to reform institutions and strengthen the country’s democracy, President Adama Barrow told visiting United Nations delegations on Tuesday.
Barrow made the remarks in a meeting with the West Africa representative of the United Nations secretary general Muhammed Ibn Chambas, Under-Secretary General for Legal Affairs and United Nations Legal Counsel—Miguel de Serpa Soares and United Nations Assistant Secretary General for Peace Building Mr Oscar Fernandez Teranco.
“The political will is there to build a strong foundation for democracy and to make sure we ensure the independence of judiciary and the Rule of Law. We promise you that as far as this government is concerned, we would not compromise the values of democracy and good governance,” said Barrow.
“Giving we inherited a broken system, I always tell my team that we have difficult task. It is a new start for this country. Others have passed through this and they have moved on. I believe we will always move on too but we can’t do it alone. We would need your support.”
The three UN delegates met the Gambian leader at the State House in the morning to discuss how the global body can assist the country’s transition to a democracy.
Their coming coincided with the launching of the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparation Commission, an inquiry established by the administration to probe the human rights violations of the past ruler Yahya Jammeh.
Chambas said they are impressed with the progress made in the country since December 1 election triumph of Barrow in 2016.
“It is in our interest to see Gambia continue to be a success story. It will not only be your success but that of the entire United Nations,” said Teranco.
The team was led to the seat of power by foreign minister Muhammed Tangara. Tangara said the UN wants the Gambia to be a test case for sustainable peace in the world.
“The whole world is watching the Gambia and we have a responsibility to deliver. Such a distinguished representation of the UN at a singular event is quite rare. Therefore, the country is quite lucky,” said Tangara.
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