Rédaction Africa Links 24 with babucarr balajo
Published on 2024-02-27 09:20:01
In a time when crime rates are on the rise in The Gambia, Dr. Ousman Gajigo highlights the dire need for security sector reform. Despite the expectations of citizens and the willingness of development partners to assist, the current regime led by President Adama Barrow has failed to take the necessary steps to address the critical security situation in the country.
It is evident that the biggest security challenge facing The Gambia today is the increase in local crimes. This should be the primary focus of any national security policy and strategy. However, empty promises and grand ceremonies have not been backed by meaningful actions on the ground. The need for security sector reform is clear, and it is critical to allocate resources appropriately to address the issue effectively.
The composition of security personnel in The Gambia has remained largely unchanged since 2016, with the military, police, and other branches maintaining their relative sizes. However, there has been a lack of emphasis on internal law enforcement, leading to a shortage of well-trained, properly paid, and equipped police officers. The budget allocation for police salaries is meager, with an average monthly salary of less than D5,000 before taxes, making it difficult for officers to focus on their job.
Furthermore, the lack of resources for law enforcement is evident in the zero allocation for police patrol vehicles in the 2024 budget. This shortage of vehicles hampers the effectiveness of law enforcement efforts, leading to a deteriorating law-and-order situation in the country. Citizens are feeling increasingly insecure in their own homes, and high-profile crimes against tourists are likely to impact the tourism sector negatively.
In addition to the rise in crime rates, there are concerns about the politicization of the security services, with security personnel prioritizing political connections over their duties. This has led to the disruption of political gatherings and the arbitrary arrest of individuals critical of the regime. The president’s reliance on foreign military for his own security reflects a failure in security sector reform and is a national embarrassment.
As ordinary citizens face the consequences of a failing security sector, it is crucial to hold the regime accountable for its failures. Blaming individual police officers and soldiers is not the solution, as they too are victims of the inadequate security system. The responsibility lies with President Adama Barrow and his government to prioritize security sector reform and address the critical security situation facing the country.
In conclusion, the lack of meaningful action on security sector reform by the current regime in The Gambia has led to a deteriorating law-and-order situation, increasing crime rates, and concerns about the politicization of the security services. It is crucial for President Adama Barrow and his government to prioritize internal law enforcement, allocate resources appropriately, and take concrete steps towards real security sector reform to address the critical security challenges facing the country.
Read the original article on The Standard
