ECOWAS calls for peace in Gambia

Following the series of protests threatening the peace in Gambia, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), has charged all stakeholders in the country to ensure peaceful existence among citizens in the country.

According to the body’s recent press release, ECOWAS Mission in Gambia is in close monitoring of situations in the country, especially with regards to various protests being held by diverse political interest groups.

H.E Vabah K. Gayflor, Special Representative of the President of ECOWAS in Gambia, stated that “The ECOWAS Permanent Mission in The Gambia has been monitoring the various protests being held in the country by the 3-Years-JOTNA, 5-Years-JOTAGUL, the APRC and other intended protests by the 3-Years-JOTNA again on 19 January 2020 and the Gambian Victims Centre in Banjul on 23 January 2020.”

He added that though these protests had so far been peaceful, the ECOWAS Mission is totally against any public display aimed at undermining the constitution of The Gambia and its political stability.

“The ECOWAS mandate requires the Mission to facilitate dialogue and initiatives that will ensure peace, security and stability in the country. The Mission’s engagement with civil society groups, religious groups and other stakeholders in respect of the current developments have all been geared towards this direction,” he noted.

However, he warned against misinformation, distortions and falsehoods capable of sowing seeds of discord between ECOWAS and Gambian stakeholders and other relevant actors.

“The ECOWAS Mission will thus not give credence to any group that seeks to be a source of instability. Therefore, any distortions by some actors in respect of previous engagements by ECOWAS must be ignored,” he warned.

“The Mission therefore remains seized within its mandate to work with the Government of The Gambia, Development Partners, Civil Society Organisations, and other relevant stakeholders to peacefully resolve any issues that have the potential to undermine the peace, security and stability in the country,” he added.