By Sariba Manneh
Mrs Yadicon Njie Eribo, Chairperson of the Association of Non-Governmental Organizations of the Gambia (TANGO) has said that the overt and covert threatening of media houses, and journalists by President Barrow is particularly shocking.
She said this on Monday, 9 October 2023 in a statement shared with this medium.
“Recent utterances by H.E. President Adama Barrow of the Republic of The Gambia are a concern. We are conveying our concern. It is with grave concern that the Association of Non-Governmental Organisations of the Gambia (TANGO) put out its statement with regard to the prevailing political climate. The exchanges being put out by the political class are not beneficial to and not for nurturing peace and democracy.”
According to her in December 2016, the Gambian people voted out authoritarianism and ushered in democracy peacefully. The statement added with great risk to their lives and properties, they significantly changed the political landscape and remain engaged in the day-to-day running of the government.
The release said that TANGO raised concerns with the recent developments, particularly in what appears to be the shrinking of the civic space, fundamental freedoms such as expression, the divergence of political views, and respect for the rule of law are very important tenets of democracy, stressing “they are non-negotiable”.
“They will not stand by and watch as they are chawed back,” the body revealed.
She therefore called on all civil society organisations to stay engaged and continue their crucial role of promoting democracy, transparency, and accessibility in governance.
