In a powerful call for unity and reconciliation, Ousman Madikay Faal, Secretary General and Party Leader of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), has urged the leaders of The Gambia, law enforcement, and the judiciary to prioritize dialogue, fairness, and restraint in governance.
Drawing on the legacy of Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara, the nation’s founding father, Faal emphasized that true peace stems from justice, mutual respect, and inclusive dialogue, rather than heavy-handed tactics or vindictive policies.
In a press statement released today, Faal invoked Sir Dawda’s wisdom, quoting him: “I can never claim it was easy to sow democracy. People criticized me for being too democratic, too soft, and too willing to listen to the other side… I insisted that power must be guided by law and that society must be governed by conscience.” Faal highlighted that Sir Dawda resisted pressures to adopt authoritarian measures, advocating instead for a democratic culture rooted in fairness and accountability.
Faal stressed that lasting peace and stability depend not only on strong institutions but on the wisdom with which they operate. “The government bears a solemn responsibility not only to maintain law and order but to create conditions for meaningful dialogue and social cohesion,” he said. He called for the creation of safe spaces where grievances, particularly those of marginalized groups, can be aired constructively. Such platforms, he argued, would foster trust and demonstrate that every citizen’s voice is valued.
The PPP leader also addressed law enforcement, emphasizing that restraint is a sign of strength, not weakness. “Every arrest, detention, and prosecution should be guided by necessity, fairness, and respect for human dignity,” Faal stated. He warned that excessive punishment or detention without due process risks alienating citizens, particularly the youth, sending a message of intimidation rather than justice. By exercising restraint, authorities can build trust and moral authority, paving the way for reconciliation.
Faal urged a people-centered approach to governance, one that prioritizes reform over repression and opportunity over exclusion. “Every Gambian, especially our youth, deserves dignity, opportunity, and the right to contribute meaningfully to the future of our country,” he said. He reaffirmed the PPP’s commitment to the rule of law, describing it as the cornerstone of national stability. This principle, he noted, ensures accountability for both citizens and authorities, fostering a harmonious balance between freedom and authority.
The statement also called for mutual respect between the public and security services. Faal acknowledged the sacrifices of law enforcement officers, urging citizens to show respect while emphasizing the need for mechanisms to address instances of overreach by authorities. “Through dialogue, accountability, and shared responsibility, we can build a country where both authority and freedom coexist harmoniously under the protection of the law,” he concluded.
