Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – Civil society activist and human rights defender Madi Jobarteh has strongly condemned recent incendiary remarks made by key political figures in The Gambia. In a statement, Jobarteh criticized United Democratic Party (UDP) leader Ousainou Darboe for comments made during a press conference on Monday, June 3rd, where Darboe declared that while his party would not initiate violence, they would respond with violence if attacked.

On his Facebook timeline, Madi Jobarteh said, “These comments are utterly inappropriate,” stated Jobarteh. “Such remarks should not be made by any political party leader, particularly one from the largest party in the Gambia. I urge Lawyer Darboe to retract his comments and instead encourage his members to maintain peace and nonviolence in their political activities.”

Jobarteh acknowledged that Darboe’s comments were a reaction to similarly inflammatory remarks made by President Adama Barrow during his recent country tour. Speaking at a meeting in Kerewan, Barrow had told his supporters, “You don’t have to be afraid because you form the government. Whoever insulted you and broke the law, you all should get up and stand firm and fight, and I will be behind you to provide support.”

These statements have been fact-checked by Malagen and identified as dangerous speech. Jobarteh noted that this is not the first time President Barrow has made such remarks. During the mayoral elections in May 2023, Barrow encouraged his supporters to assert their dominance as the ruling party, fostering a climate of fear and potential violence.

Instances of violence involving Barrow’s supporters have been reported, yet no one has been held accountable. Notably, UDP’s Ebrima Dibba recounted an incident in Kanilai where his team was assaulted during election registration, but no action was taken by the authorities despite reporting it to the police. Additionally, Barrow has openly bragged about ordering security forces to clamp down on the Three Years Jotna protesters, and UDP supporters were physically assaulted by PIU officers during the last local government elections.

Jobarteh highlighted that President Barrow’s rhetoric and actions have contributed to a culture of impunity and violence. However, he emphasized that responding to violence with violence, as suggested by Darboe, is not the solution. The UDP must uphold peace, the rule of law, and human rights to be seen as a credible and responsible democratic party.

“I strongly urge Lawyer Darboe to withdraw his incendiary comments,” Jobarteh continued. “Such remarks can only militarize his party members as Barrow has done with his. The country does not need such a situation. Both leaders’ irresponsible comments can energize party supporters to become violent over the slightest issue.”

Jobarteh called on the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) to fulfill its responsibility in ensuring a peaceful, stable, and fair political environment. The IEC must hold political parties, politicians, and their supporters accountable for violence and malpractices. Similarly, the Inter-Party Committee should activate their Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to ensure respect and nonviolence among parties.

Lastly, Jobarteh urged Attorney General and Minister of Justice Dawda Jallow and Inspector General of Police Seedy Muctarr Touray to caution President Barrow against incitement to violence and breach of peace. He emphasized that no Gambian, regardless of position or status, has the right to flout the Constitution and threaten the country’s stability.

“Political leaders must always tread on the path of peace and democracy and shun violence and violations,” Jobarteh concluded. “The Universal Declaration of Human Rights states that human rights should be protected by the rule of law to prevent rebellion against tyranny and oppression. Therefore, it is imperative for the Attorney General and IGP to enforce the law equally to avoid sliding into violence and instability.”

Madi Jobarteh’s call for restraint and adherence to democratic principles underscores the critical need for responsible leadership in The Gambia, particularly as the nation navigates its political challenges.