Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Mr. Gaye TheVoice
Published on 2024-03-20 07:56:28
The Gambian Delegation, led by Majority Leader Billay G. Tunkara, presented their report to the second ordinary session of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament in Abuja, Nigeria, from November 22nd to December 15th, 2023.
During the session, reports from individual countries and various committees were discussed and debated by Hon. Members. The 2024 Consolidated Budget of the Community Parliament was approved, and discussions on current issues within the sub-region took place.
Head of the Gambian Delegation, Hon. Tunkara, presented a situational report on Gambia’s progress in the thematic areas outlined by the parliament.
Regarding the political situation, Hon. Tunkara reported that Gambia’s political environment remained stable, vibrant, and conducive for all political stakeholders. He also noted a level of political tolerance in the operation of the Inter-Party Committee (IPC), which coordinates all registered political parties.
In terms of security, Hon. Tunkara stated that the country’s security situation was relatively calm and peaceful, with significant successes in the Security Sector Reform and training of security personnel to protect and promote human rights and prevent the recurrence of past violations.
He mentioned a tragic incident in September 2023, where police officers at the Sukuta Traffic Lights were shot, resulting in two fatalities. The suspect was apprehended, and investigations were ongoing.
Additionally, Hon. Tunkara highlighted that The Gambia was placed in Tier 2 by the US Department of State Trafficking in Persons Report for 2022. In February 2023, a court in The Gambia convicted and sentenced an individual to 15 years in prison and a fine for human trafficking.
The National Assembly then considered and adopted the delegation’s report.
Overall, the presentation by the Gambian Delegation provided valuable insights into the political, security, and human rights situation in The Gambia. The report shed light on the country’s progress, challenges, and ongoing efforts to address issues such as human trafficking and security concerns.
The ECOWAS Parliament session in Abuja was an important platform for member states to discuss and collaborate on regional issues, with each delegation sharing their country’s experiences and perspectives. The approval of the Community Parliament’s budget and deliberations on current regional challenges demonstrate the commitment of ECOWAS member states to working together towards a more prosperous and stable West Africa.
In conclusion, the report presented by the Gambian Delegation at the ECOWAS Parliament session highlighted the country’s achievements and challenges, emphasizing the importance of regional cooperation in addressing complex issues and promoting peace and development in the sub-region.
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