By: Nyima Sillah
The Coalition of Progressive Gambians (CoPG), has challenged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) to explain the reasons behind the maltreatment and killing of Gambians in foreign countries.
“We call on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to come out and explain to The people of Gambia the reasons for the deaths and inhumane treatment of Gambians abroad and deportees as well. It’s time for the Ministry to redefine The Gambia’s foreign policy and ensure proper agreements in line with mutual respect are put in place,” CoPG stated in a report shared with this medium.
According to CoPG, Foreign Affairs is the Ministry that defines Gambia’s image and likeness internationally and must be defined with the highest degree of moral attitudes, ethics and values.
“This is the Ministry that can buy us international recognition and respect. We are living in a century where there are no longer subjects and our sovereignty must never be compromised. Countries must treat and regard each other as partners irrespective of size or population,” the CoPG report pointed out.
The Pressure Group expressed concern over the treatment of Gambians in the diaspora particularly on the recent deaths of Gambians in Egypt and Germany and the inhumane treatment of Gambians deported from Germany.
“We expect our government to regard every Gambian life because they are dear and very important. Gambian people’s tolerance and smiles must not be abused. The authorities of those countries that failed our cordial relationship and acceptable values must be held responsible and questioned for their negligence and lack of concern and respect for human rights.
“The Coalition of Progressive Gambians called on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to consult with those countries to put a stop to the reoccurrence of these unfortunate situations. The maltreatment of Gambians in other countries like Morocco, Tunisia, Libya, and Germany and the intrusion of Senegal in our internal security in recent years has questioned our foreign policy and sovereignty.”
CoPG asserted that the government of The Gambia needs a total overhaul of foreign policy and personnel attached to the Foreign Service to regain international integrity and respect.