United Democratic Party (UDP) leader ANM Ousainou Darboe has pledged to fully implement the recommendations of The Gambia's Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC) within five years if elected president. He made this pledge during a fundraising event organized by the UDP's GASH chapter in Switzerland. Darboe emphasized that justice must come before lasting national reconciliation, highlighting the importance of addressing past human rights violations.
Darboe acknowledged that victims of human rights abuses committed during former President Yahya Jammeh's rule are still waiting for justice. He promised that their cases would be given priority under a UDP government. The UDP leader stressed that national unity cannot be achieved if the experiences of victims are ignored, and that genuine political will is required to implement the TRRC recommendations.
In addition to implementing the TRRC recommendations, Darboe outlined plans for legal reforms, economic empowerment, and addressing the country's chronic electricity problems. He stated that the UDP has sufficient legal expertise to review and repeal laws considered unjust or outdated. Darboe expressed confidence that his party can effect these changes within three years.
On economic empowerment, Darboe called for greater Gambian ownership of key sectors and strategic national assets. He cited the recent sale of Mega Bank, expressing disappointment that Gambians, including those abroad, were not given the opportunity to acquire it before foreign investors. Darboe emphasized that he is not against foreign investment but believes Gambians should be given priority when strategic assets are sold.
Darboe also addressed the country's electricity problems, pledging to resolve them within three years of a UDP government taking office. He referenced the late musician Tatadingding's call for Gambians to give him the opportunity to fix the problem. The UDP leader's plans aim to address some of the country's pressing challenges.
The UDP leader's pledge to implement the TRRC recommendations has significant implications for the country's transitional justice process. The TRRC was established to investigate human rights abuses committed during Jammeh's rule and provide recommendations for accountability and reconciliation. Darboe's commitment to implementing these recommendations is seen as a crucial step towards achieving justice and national reconciliation.
Darboe's plans for legal reforms, economic empowerment, and addressing electricity problems demonstrate his vision for the country's development. His emphasis on prioritizing Gambian ownership of strategic assets and addressing past abuses reflects his party's commitment to promoting national interests and accountability. The UDP leader's proposals have sparked interest among Gambians, who are eager to see tangible solutions to the country's challenges.
Key points
- Darboe pledges to implement TRRC recommendations within 5 years if elected president.
