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Momodou
Denmark
11712 Posts |
 Posted - 23 Jan 2013 : 08:50:51
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NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ON EU PROPOSALS FOR POLITICAL DIALOGUE
By Lamin Sanyang
Foroyaa: Published on Tuesday, 22 January 2013
The members of National Assembly adopted the petition submitted by the Marches in Banjul against the European Union's proposals for political dialogue with the Gambian authorities. Readers would recall that Civil Servants, Members of the National Assembly, Ministers and APRC party supporters held a procession and marched to the state house to deliver a petition in support of the position of the president to reject the priorities proposed by the EU to be the agenda for the political dialogue.
The motion for the National Assembly to deliberate on was read by the Speaker as follows:
"Be it resolved that this August Assembly do consider and approve the petition by The Gambian People on the European Union's Article 8 Political Dialogue with the Gambia Government. This is a national and public interest issue. It is for us as the elected members of the people to decide", asserted Hon. Abdoulie Bojang, Speaker of the National Assembly.
The motion was moved by Hon. Fabakary Tombong Jatta, Majority Leader and National Assembly Member (NAM) for Serrekunda East. He thanked those who took the petition to the National Assembly. He said they have acted rightly as required by democratic tenets.
Hon. Jatta condemns the proposals of the European Union. He accused them of interfering directly on the domestic affairs of the country. He accused them of trying to destabilize the peace and security of the country.
"There are lots of people who are jubilating for the EU to sanction the Gambia. This country is a sovereign country", he said.
The Majority Leader said they are prepared and willing to deal with all issues for the betterment of the country. He mentioned the various Articles that the government signed including the Lome' and Cotonou Agreements. He accepted that all these agreements were based on fundamental principles to respect the security of the people.
"We know we cannot live in isolation. We are prepared to engage in dialogue with any institution but with recognition of our dignity", argued the Majority Leader.
Hon. Jatta admitted that no system is perfect. He argued that the total majority of the Gambian people are with them. He said they are not afraid of any dialogue. The Serrekunda East NAM complained of preconceived agenda with regard to the time frame set by the EU. He mentioned the execution of 9 death row inmates which he said was carried out in accordance with the law.
"We as the representatives of the people should decide the merits and demerits of the death penalty but must be guided by the wishes of the Gambian people", he pointed out.
The Majority Leader asserted that the reviews of the laws are ongoing but giving timeline to the National Assembly is disrespectful. He made mention of elements working with the EU to undermine the peace and security of the country. He argued that most Europeans did not know what is happening in the Gambia.
"The Press is a partner in development but we will not tolerate the people who have their own agenda hiding behind Press freedom", he disclosed.
Hon. Jatta condemns the call for the free registration of media in the country. He said the country is a tax based economy. He calls for the right to regulate the online media which he branded as the most dangerous media.
"We accept and appreciate the opposition. They can engage us. They must respect the ruling party", said the Majority Leader.
The Majority Leader calls for change of attitude on the side of the opposition in the country. He argued that the opposition would reject the invitation to attend the state functions. He said they would not attend state functions but would be the first to arrive at the EU functions.
The motion was seconded by Hon. Lamin Saine, nominated member and Deputy Director of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA). He argued that the human rights of Gambians are respected at all levels. He argued that the timeline of EU is unattainable and unacceptable as they are standing by the Gambian people. He said they are not against dialogue but the approach taken by the EU is wrong.
"If you look at what the EU is saying it is all happening in the country", asserted Hon. Samba Jallow, Minority Leader and NAM for Niamina Dankunku.
The Minority Leader reminds the Assembly of his comments during the last adjournment debate. He said he cannot agree that the EU proposals are emanating from the outside . He said it is something happening in the country.
"Let us not forget that the EU is our long time partner in development", he pointed out.
The NAM for Niamina Dankunku calls for more diplomacy and maturity in dealing with the issue. He mentioned the million dollar projects in agriculture funded by the EU which he said cannot be called 'chicken change'. He also mentioned the various road projects funded by the EU which he said the government used to boast. He said they cannot deny that the country is benefiting from the relationship.
"The recent demonstration or 'solidarity march' reminds me of the student demonstration when people were shot and killed by the authorities. Two journalists were detained for applying a permit to organise peaceful demonstration. Why is it that all the time members of the ruling party are allowed holding demonstrations and others are denied", asserted the Minority Leader.
The Minority Leader quoted section 207 of the 1997 constitution about the freedom and independence of the media. He argued that the ruling party may boast about the numerous radio stations in the country but cannot deny its ineffectiveness. He argued that most of the radios are meant for only music without broadcasting the concerns of the people.
The Niamina Dankunku NAM mentioned the closure of Taranga FM radio and other media houses in the country. He mentioned the detention without trial which he said is totally against the laws of the country. He argued that the families of the 9 executed prisoners deserve the right to know where their loved ones are buried.
Several members contributed giving unflinching support and expressed loyalty to President Jammeh. They include Bintanding Jarjue NAM for Foni Brefet, the NAMs for Banjul Central, North and South, members for Kiang Central, Kiang West Jarra East, Lower Niumi, Upper Niumi including nominated members Hon. Babou Gaye Sonko and Seedy Njie.
Subsequently, the petition was considered and adopted by the Assembly.
Editor's Note
Foroyaa will publish the contributions of the members of the National Assembly in greater detail.
Source: Foroyaa
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A clear conscience fears no accusation - proverb from Sierra Leone |
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Momodou
Denmark
11712 Posts |
Posted - 23 Jan 2013 : 08:56:11
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OPERATION NO TO EU DEMANDS LAUNCHED
Foroyaa Editorial: Published on Tuesday, 22 January 2013
Nothing is still said about the whereabouts of Imam Baba Leigh which should have been the task of a Human Rights Commission to investigate if it was established. One of the concerns mentioned by the EU in their proposal for the dialogue is for the Gambia Government to explain the status of proposal to establish a Human Rights Commission.
It was mandatory for the National Assembly to review the desirability or other wise of the total abolition of the death penalty within ten years of the coming into force of the Constitution in 1997. The National Assembly abdicated its responsibility. One of the EU proposals is for the Government to explain how the Constitutional provision is to be restored to facilitate the review of the issue of abolition of the death penalty.
Taranga FM is still shut down by executive order and not by a court decision. One of the EU proposals is to establish an Independent authority to oversee the granting of licenses and media houses like Daily News, the Standard and other electronic media houses to be allowed to operate without hindrance as long as they do not offend the laws of the country.
Article 9 of the Cotonou Agreement permits states to propose an agenda and their prioritization for the political dialogue. Let those who are campaigning for zero compliance with the EU proposals tell the people what the proposals state and then explain why they will not comply with each of them.
Source: Foroyaa |
A clear conscience fears no accusation - proverb from Sierra Leone |
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toubab1020
12309 Posts |
Posted - 23 Jan 2013 : 11:20:06
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Very very slowly the creaking door begins to open,I wonder when the Cotonou Agreement was signed if the signatories realised the importance of what they were signing ?
EPA countries (economic Partnership Agreements.
"West Africa group" (ECOWAS plus Mauritania)
Benin
Burkina Faso
Cape Verde
Ivory Coast
Gambia
Ghana
Guinea
Guinea-Bissau
Liberia
Mali
Mauritania
Niger
Nigeria
Senegal
Sierra Leone
Togo
Ref: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Economic_Partnership_Agreements
Ref: http://allafrica.com/stories/200203210390.html
"Article 9 of the Cotonou Agreement permits states to propose an agenda and their prioritization for the political dialogue. Let those who are campaigning for zero compliance with the EU proposals tell the people what the proposals state and then explain why they will not comply with each of them."
PDF link to the Cotonou Agreement:
http://ec.europa.eu/europeaid/where/acp/overview/documents/devco-cotonou-consol-europe-aid-2012_en.pdf |
"Simple is good" & I strongly dislike politics. You cannot defend the indefensible.
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Edited by - toubab1020 on 23 Jan 2013 11:37:38 |
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toubab1020
12309 Posts |
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dbaldeh
USA
934 Posts |
Posted - 24 Jan 2013 : 01:39:24
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The NAM for Niamina Dankunku calls for more diplomacy and maturity in dealing with the issue. He mentioned the million dollar projects in agriculture funded by the EU which he said cannot be called 'chicken change'. He also mentioned the various road projects funded by the EU which he said the government used to boast. He said they cannot deny that the country is benefiting from the relationship.
"The recent demonstration or 'solidarity march' reminds me of the student demonstration when people were shot and killed by the authorities. Two journalists were detained for applying a permit to organise peaceful demonstration. Why is it that all the time members of the ruling party are allowed holding demonstrations and others are denied", asserted the Minority Leader.
The Minority Leader quoted section 207 of the 1997 constitution about the freedom and independence of the media. He argued that the ruling party may boast about the numerous radio stations in the country but cannot deny its ineffectiveness. He argued that most of the radios are meant for only music without broadcasting the concerns of the people.
The Niamina Dankunku NAM mentioned the closure of Taranga FM radio and other media houses in the country. He mentioned the detention without trial which he said is totally against the laws of the country. He argued that the families of the 9 executed prisoners deserve the right to know where their loved ones are buried.
Imagine if Gambia have 10 - 14 such voices as the minority leader in the house of representatives? Imagine if many voices of reason and common sense continue to echo in the house of representatives?
I couldn't agree with the honorable member more... absolutely on the money on these issues and many other issues. APRC members or government is allowed to demonstrate and yet our students were deprieved of the same rights, Femi Peters was deprieved of the same rights, the two journalists were arrested and jailed for wanting to do the same...
My question once again goes back to the political leaders? What is stopping you from organizing your people if the ruling government can organize its people to demonstrate? Oh I forgot that is not the role of the opposition (a government in waiting)... Controversial of course but we must say it as it is...
If the government can demonstrate, if elected members can demonstrate, if civil servants can demonstrate, if the police and the Yai compins can demonstrate... so should and can the opposition... something is wrong with the picture in Gambia... simple lack of leadership period!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Baldeh,
"Be the change you want to see in the world" Ghandi
Visit http://www.gainako.com for your daily news and politics |
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kobo
United Kingdom
7765 Posts |
Posted - 24 Jan 2013 : 03:05:45
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quote:
Originally posted by dbaldeh
If the government can demonstrate, if elected members can demonstrate, if civil servants can demonstrate, if the police and the Yai compins can demonstrate... so should and can the opposition... something is wrong with the picture in Gambia... simple lack of leadership period!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
DISAGREE TOTALLY WITH YOU, AS YOU DARE LEAVE YOUR COMFORT ZONE IN US TO RETURN AS A POLITICAL DISSIDENT AND LEAD ANY POLITICAL CAMPAIGN 
YOU MISSED THE POINTS ON PROPER REASONS UNDER A STATE OF TERROR AND DESCRIPTION OF POLITICAL SITUATION. FACING TYRANNY IS LIFE WITHIN A WAR ZONE AND MINE FIELDS AROUND YOU; THEREFORE YOUR PERSONAL SECURITY AND SURVIVAL IS AT STAKE
THOSE ON THE GROUND ARE UNSUNG HEROES BECAUSE THEIR POLITICAL LIFE IS FULL OF DANGER AND SACRIFICE! EASIER SAID THAN DONE! |
Edited by - kobo on 24 Jan 2013 03:40:43 |
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dbaldeh
USA
934 Posts |
Posted - 24 Jan 2013 : 10:04:51
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Brother Kobo, good to be back with you again... Well, I will give you that line of reasoning... that it is "easier said than done" Personally I am mindful of calling for people to get to the streets in Banjul and I have never done so as long as I am not able to lead them along those demonstrations...
On the other hand, isn't it not correct that they have the same political rights to demonstrate whether they take advantage or risk of it or not?
Would you not agree that political leaders on the ground are in a better position and better served by confronting this regime directly?
Do you think President Jammeh dare pick up all the political party leaders and jail them for good without consequences?
Why do you think he continues to avoid arresting as much as he could or immediately release them anytime he makes an arrest of the leaders?
My believe is that arresting all political leaders who are simply peacefully demanding political change and equal access to the state media, right to assemble and protest will set a fire storm that will immediately put the Jammeh regime in a corner where they would have no choice but to heed to the demands of the international community.
I believe that the political leaders have a leverage and legitimacy that many ordinary citizens don't have by virtue of their declaration of political leadership to challenge the sitting government. A great example of is Dr. Janneh and the CCG members. Since they never came out and declared their political affiliations or party formation it was easy to accuse them of treason.. They cannot do the same with the likes of Halifa, Darboe or Bah... This is my point!
While I recognize the risk involved in confronting Jammeh and his regime, I honestly believe that is the only way to peacefully force this government to accept the political and governing reform that the political leaders are calling for... Anything less only falls on deft ears...
While it is not fair again for me to sit here and call for them to get to the streets which I have never done, I would have been in a position to lead a demonstration and ready to accept the consequences should I have declared myself as a leader of any political party or youth group... Until that time materializes I can only hold those who willingly declare themselves to represent us to the promises they gave - sacrificing everything to lead the country...
This is my point and I think it is reasonable. I however accept your divergent views on this situation but I strongly stand by what I believe and I hope you will respect that as well. |
Baldeh,
"Be the change you want to see in the world" Ghandi
Visit http://www.gainako.com for your daily news and politics |
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Momodou
Denmark
11712 Posts |
Posted - 26 Jan 2013 : 14:48:12
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MINORITY LEADER AGAINST OTHERS ON EU PROPOSALS
By Lamin Sanyang
Foroyaa: Published on Friday, 25 January 2013
Following the president's rejection of the 17 proposals of the European Union for the Political Dialogue with the Government, a motion was tabled before the National Assembly on Monday, 21 January 2013 for the law makers to adopt the petition of the group of people who marched to the state house to present the same petition to the president rejecting the EU proposal. Civil servants, APRC National Assembly Members, Cabinet members and party stalwarts among others presented the petition in the name of the Gambian people as a whole.
During the contribution of the National Assembly Members to the resolution presented to them for debate by the Speaker, Hon. Abdoulie Bojang, the Minority Leader and Member for Niamina Dankunku, Hon. Samba Jallow urged the government to be circumspect in its approach to the EU Political Dialogue as these are issues that emanate from concerns of the people in the Gambia.
He expressed his objection to the claim that the issues in EU/Gambia proposals is not emanating from the Gambian people. "If you look at what the EU is saying it is all happening in the country", asserted Hon. Jallow, Minority Leader and NAM for Niamina Dankunku.
The Minority Leader argued that the members of the ruling Party are missing the point as the EU proposals has nothing to do with interference by outside powers in our internal affairs. He reminded them about his comments during the last adjournment debate. He said he cannot agree that the proposals are emanating from somebody who wants to interfere with the affairs of the country. He argued that all the points stated on the proposal are something happening in the country.
Hon. Jallow quoted from the introduction of the EU's 17 point proposals. He said that the EU has written why the need to raise such issues for the political dialogue. He said that the EU is concerned with the deterioration of the human Rights situation in the country notably, the closure of media houses, arbitrary arrest, and detention without trial and execution of death row prisoners among others. He argued that the statements on the proposals are problems happening in the country whether they like it or not. He condemned the detaining of people for more than 72 hours as it is against the law.
On the issue of freedom of the Media Hon. Samba Jallow said the EU asks that the Government confirms its commitment to allow the free operation of independent media in The Gambia. This should reassure media stakeholders that as long as the media adheres to the laws of the Gambia, the Government guarantees that they will not be arbitrarily closed and that any closure will be notified by court order as required by law. He concurred that the proposed time frame for action is one month. He concurred with this point
The minority leader quoted Section 207 of the Constitution. He emphasised that the EU proposal is just calling for the freedom of the media in the Gambia.
He said the EU asks the following:
(i) A removal of restrictions on accessing and sharing information electronically which should translate in the unblocking of online media. He said the time frame is one month.
(ii) A revision of the provisions in the Criminal Code that allow for prosecution on charges of "sedition, libel, false publication or false information to a public servant", and which impose prison terms and/or high fines. E said the time frame proposed is six months.
(iii) Revision of laws on freedom of expression and media regulation, such as those laid down in "Article 19" report. "The Gambia: analysis of selected laws on media — overview" (April 2012 - prepared in the framework of the EU/The Gambia NSA program and provided to Government during last Article 8 meeting June 2012). He said the proposed time frame is 24 months.
"The Criminal Code mentioned, I feel the EU is calling for us to decriminalize it" and handle the media on the basis of civil suit which I feel is right", he pointed out
On the issue of the death penalty the minority leader said the EU proposes for the following actions to be undertaken:
- That the Government maintains the reinstated de facto moratorium on the use of the death penalty .The proposed time frame for this is immediate
- That the Government provides information regarding the recent executions, including the location of the place of burial to the families of the victims, in line with Article 7 of the ICCPR.
- That a full and transparent review of the death penalty by the National Assembly, including clarity on the method of execution takes place as required by the Gambian Constitution (Section 18 (3).The proposed timeframe for this is 12 months
Depending on the review by the National Assembly, propose to introduce a de jure moratorium on the use of the death penalty.
The EU asks that Government concludes Moratorium of Understanding with the ICRC TO ALLOW FOR ICRC access to prison facilities on a regular basis, and for these visits to take place according to ICRC standards.
The Minority Leader in his comment on the execution of 9 death row prisoners quoted the laws of the Gambia. He argued that the penalty only stop at executing the offenders as the authorities has no right to keep the bodies. He argued that the bodies should be given back to families to perform the Muslim burial for them.
On the issue of the Prisons the Minority leader said the EU proposes for The Government, in partnership with the ICRC, should present costed proposals to improve prison/detention facility conditions, to be brought further into line with international standards, and budget accordingly.
The NAM for Niamina Dankunku calls on parliamentarians to look at things in both aspects. He said all the terms and timeline are mere proposals. He calls for diplomacy and maturity in resolving the issue. He asserted that the EU has made the proposal and what is expected of them is to sit with the EU to discuss.
"Let us not forget that the EU is our long time partners in development", he pointed out.
Hon. Jallow mentioned about the million dollar projects in agriculture funded by the EU which he said cannot be called 'chicken change'. He mentioned the funding of various road projects which he said the government used to boost. He said they cannot deny they are benefiting from the relationship.
"The recent demonstration or 'solidarity march' reminds me of the student demonstration when people were shot and killed by the authorities. Two journalists were detained for applying a permit to organize peaceful demonstration. Why it is that all the time members of the ruling party are allowed holding demonstration and others are denied", asserted the Minority Leader.
Hon. Jallow condemned the unfairness of the authorities for allowing the supporters of the ruling party to hold rallies and demonstrations while denying the opposition. He questioned the moral justification of the Gambian authorities in suppressing the opposition. He challenge them to respect the constitutional rights of the opposition to hold rallies and demonstrations if they want it.
The Minority Leader quoted section 207 of the 1997 constitution about the freedom and independence of the media. He argued that the ruling party may boost about the numerous radio stations in the country but cannot deny its ineffectiveness. He argued that most of the radios are meant for only music without broadcasting the concerns of the people.
"Although, I cannot concord with the free registration of the media because we are a tax base economy, he disclosed.
The Niamina Dankunku NAM mentioned about the closure of Taranga FM radio and other media houses in the country. He mentioned about the detention without trial which he said totally against the laws of the country. He argued that the families of the 9 executed prisoners deserve the right to know where their love ones were buried.
When each of the APRC NAMs took the floor, they expressed their support to the president of the republic by adopting the petition submitted by the marchers in Banjul against the European Union's proposals for political dialogue with the Gambian authorities.
"We are very angry about these things. People who support them should not be given space in this country", said Hon. Bintanding Jarjue, NAM for Foni Berefet.
The Foni Berefet NAM has labeled all Gambians in partnership with EU as ungrateful citizens. She stressed that the women of the country would never forgive such persons. She said they did not want to see their children in refugee camps.
"When people are talking about development others are talking about confusion", she said.
Hon. Jarjue admitted that she was confused when she heard about these things. She said she thought the country has lost its independence. She argued that people should differentiate between political journalism and professional journalism.
"We have elected a professor of all professors for peace. We are fully behind president Jammeh", she said.
Hon. Abdoulie Saine, NAM for Banjul Central, who was reading from a text, said since the disapproval of EU demands by the cabinet a great debate rose in his constituency. He expressed his loyalty and support to president Jammeh and condemned the EU proposals as baseless. The Banjul Central NAM has quizzed the morality of EU and United States for dictating the government. He accused them of sanctioning the country in 1994. He claimed that the country has developed all these years without them.
"Down with the EU, down with the United States and down with the UNDP hypocrites!" he shouted out.
At this juncture, there was murmuring and laughter at the legislative chambers showing appreciation to the remarks made by the member for Banjul Central.
The NAM for Kiang Central calls for constructive dialogue under the atmosphere of mutual respect. He claimed that the EU demands are bent on undermining the peace and security of the country. He reaffirmed his support and commended president Jammeh.
"We are fully behind President Jammeh in whatever he said or do. He was the one who save this country in 1994", said Hon. Misba Hydara, NAM for Lower Niumi.
Hon. Hydara pointed that the infrastructural development of the country is enough for them to support the president in whatever he do or wishes.
Hon. Baboucarr Nyang, NAM for Banjul South, condemned the 17 points proposals of the European Union. He referred to the proposals as direct interference which, he said, all genuine Pan-Africanists should condemn.
"The 17 points of EU is ultra vires", said Hon. Alagie Sillah, NAM for Banjul North.
The Banjul North NAM expressed his disapproval to the free registration of media in the country. He condemned homosexuals and lesbians as it would bring suffering to the people. He claimed the suffering could come in the form of sickness or other punishments.
"We have 28 radio stations and 16 print media in the country. The closure of one radio station is insignificant", said Hon. Babou Gaye Sonko, nominated member.
At this stage, he turned round and told the members of the press who were present that he will provide them with further information on this issue regarding the number of media houses operating in the country.
The nominated member said he was speaking on behalf of the youth of the country. He said the entire youth folk have condemned the EU 17 points. He said even the baboons would not accept the points much more human beings.
However, Hon. Netty Baldeh, NAM for Tumana and Permanent Representative at the AU Parliament, called the EU demands as disrespectful. He quoted the EU Article on sexual orientation concerning homosexuals and lesbians which, he said, would not happen here. He claimed Europe is facing problems of the same sex marriages.
"We will communicate to them through the right channel. We will let the people to know what they are doing", he disclosed.
The NAM for Tumana said the president has the mandate to sign the death warrant and determines the place of execution. He said the law does not say the president should hand over the death bodies to families.
"All what you said was supported by all members except the Minority Leader who was in opposition", Speaker Bojang told the Majority Leader.
Meanwhile, Hon. Fabakary Tombong Jatta, Majority Leader and member for Serrekunda East said the Minority Leader was wrongly informed. He accused him of quoting the opposition PDOIS party's circulated material. He touched on the contradictory comments of the Minority Leader and NAM for Niamina Dankunku. Hon. Jatta said they did not deny the EU is helping but the approach taken was wrong.
Hon. Jatta earlier mentioned about the concerns expressed by the EU in the Human Rights issues of the country. He mentioned about the closure of media houses, execution of 9 death row prisoners among others. He questioned the reason why this is so peculiar to Gambian people.
The Majority Leader argued that most of the proposals made by the European Union are already in the constitution. He mentioned the issue of arbitrary arrest and detention without trial. He also argued that the president has the mandate to determine the place of burial of those executed by the death penalty.
Source: Foroyaa |
A clear conscience fears no accusation - proverb from Sierra Leone |
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kobo
United Kingdom
7765 Posts |
Posted - 30 Jan 2013 : 04:42:35
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FOROYAA BURNING ISSUES NEWS;
THE DAILY NEWS;
MAAFANTA,COM;
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Edited by - kobo on 30 Jan 2013 05:25:49 |
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