Ecowas has urged the Government of The Gambia and stakeholders to expedite the adoption of the new Constitution ahead of the 2026 general elections and the implementation of the Whitepaper on the recommendations of the Truth, Reparations and Reconciliation Commission.
The sub-regional bloc leaders made the call in a final communiqué issued at the end of its 64th ordinary Summit in Abuja on Sunday.
Ecowas Leaders, including President Adama Barrow of the Gambia, met for a summit centered on the political and security situation within the sub-region.
In a final communiqué read out by Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, the President of the Ecowas Commission, at the end of the Summit:
“The Authority urged the Gambia government and stakeholders to expedite the adoption of the new Constitution ahead of the 2026 general elections, as well as the implementation of the Whitepaper on the recommendations of the Truth, Reparations and Reconciliation Commission,” read Dr Omar Alieu Touray, the President of the Ecowas Commission in a communiqué.
The Authority also decided to extend the mandate of ECOMIG for another year and instructed the mission to continue supporting The Gambia in implementing the Whitepaper and the needed defense and security reforms.
In his address to the Summit, President Barrow said his Government continues to collaborate with all stakeholders to nurture and safeguard the existing peaceful and stable environment in The Gambia.
He said the Government prioritizes ongoing reform programs, including the Security Sector Reform (SSR), transitional justice agenda, and promotion of the rule of law to achieve this objective.
President Barrow said the Government renewed its commitment to work with the ECOWAS Commission in fast-tracking the SSR.
He used the opportunity to thank ECOWAS, ECOMIG Mission, and Troop contributing countries and partners for their support in maintaining peace and stability in The Gambia. Also, he encourages Ecowas to continue accompanying The Gambia in its efforts for sustainable peace and security in the Smiling Coast.
“I reassure this Summit that we are devoted to implementing reform programmes that enhance effective performance, operational efficiency, and judicious financial management to attain our national goals and targets. Importantly also, implementation of the Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparation Commission (TRRC) recommendations is on course,” said President Barrow.
