The former Special Representative of the United Nations Special Representative for West Africa and the Sahel, has said he wants The Gambia to set an example for the rest of Africa to let the world know that there is truly a new Gambia in which democracy, rule of law and the peaceful conduct of elections is the order of the day.
His Excellency Mohamed IBN Chambas, was speaking to the media recently following a closed-door meeting with President Adama Barrow during a delegation from the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance visit to the State House.
According to him, the delegation came to present its mission as part of efforts to ensure “peaceful and credible elections” in December.
He added that the delegation also sought the President’s support to ensure that all stakeholders adhere to the call for a peaceful electoral process. “Political parties, their youth wings, women’s wings, and the media, have a very important role to play in calling for peaceful conduct,”
“People should avoid violence and other untoward behaviour that can undermine the prevalence of a peaceful and conducive environment for the elections,” her added.
He informed further that the ultimate objective of his team is to develop a code of conduct which he hopes will be signed by all political parties. The document will help regulate and hold political leaders and their supporters accountable for their conduct throughout the process.
The former UN SG for West Africa seized the opportunity to express his appreciation to President Barrow for his support. He affirmed that the President has accepted the message of the delegation and promised them of his party’s full participation.
Dr Chambas was accompanied by the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Honorable Dawda Jallow, and Mrs Elizabeth Y. Renner, former Speaker of the National Assembly.
