Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – In the ongoing transformation of the Gambia Police Force, key stakeholders gathered on Tuesday for a pivotal validation workshop. The event, which included the participation of regional governors, chiefs, Alkalolus, Seyfolus, youth leaders, and women’s organizations, provided an essential platform for reviewing and refining the new police bill. This bill is the cornerstone of the Gambia Police Force’s efforts to align with international standards and democratic policing practices.
The workshop was spearheaded by Inspector General of Police, Seedy Muctarr Touray, who delivered a compelling opening address. He emphasized the importance of the workshop, noting that the current police act, which dates back to 1949, no longer meets the demands of modern policing. “The current police act was enacted in 1949, 16 years before Gambia gained independence from the British government in 1965. The act has been amended seven times between 1949 and 1986, but from 1986 to date, a great deal has changed,” Touray stated. He highlighted how technological advances have introduced new crimes such as cyberbullying, identity theft, and internet fraud, necessitating a comprehensive overhaul of the Police Act.
Touray further challenged the participants to rigorously scrutinize the draft bill, which includes crucial sections on the structure and functions of the police, the recruitment and training of officers, and the establishment of new units focused on human rights and community policing. “Today I present to you the draft Gambia Police Force Bill 2024 for scrutiny and validation. I humbly invite you to thoroughly critique the document and offer your invaluable insights to make it fit for purpose,” he urged.
The workshop also featured contributions from key partners. Teresa Krafft, representing the GIZ Police Program, reaffirmed the commitment of international partners to support the reform agenda. She noted that the revised Police Act aims to align with the current realities and better equip the Gambia Police Force to maintain peace and security.
Former Minister of Interior and ex-Inspector General of Police Yankuba Sonko, who is consulting on the bill, also provided insights into the draft. He emphasized the bill’s focus on accountability, transparency, and human rights, stating that it aims to create a more efficient and effective police force that is accountable to both the laws of the Gambia and its citizens.
The convergence of all stakeholders at this validation workshop underscores the critical nature of this reform process. The involvement of key figures in the validation process signals a collaborative effort to shape the future of the Gambia Police Force, ensuring it is well-equipped to meet the evolving security needs of the nation.
