Peace Network Condemns Alleged Coup Plot, Urges Speedy Security Sector Reform

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The Peace Network on Tuesday, 20th December, 2022 condemns the alleged coup plot by some soldiers of the Gambia Armed and Security Forces.

Meanwhile, the peace organization urged the Government of the Gambia to prioritise and speed up the Security Sector Reform initiated five years ago.

It also called for the speedy implementation of Truth Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC) recommendations and the government whitepaper.

According to Mr Alasana Jallow, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Peace Network, the security personnel should not in anyway interfere in politics because they can undermine the democratic processes of the Gambia.

“Such acts (coups etc.) are uncalled for as they foment democratic backsliding, thus placing the country in a cataclysmic of political instability and insecurity.”

He added that military intervention in politics can deteriorate the “registered gains” made in the Gambia’s transition from dictatorship to democracy.

Therefore, he urged members of the Gambia armed and security forces to focus on the protection of the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

“That is the sacred and uncompromising duty they must perform per their oaths,” he stated.

He further stated that “The Peace Network encourages all citizens and people living in The Gambia to be ambassadors of peace and participate meaningfully in peacemaking, for maintaining and sustaining peace and security in the Gambia is the business of all.”