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Momodou
Denmark
11823 Posts |
 Posted - 22 Aug 2006 : 22:38:38
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Foroyaa Editorial
THE PRESS AND THE DANGERS OF THE FIGHT CLOSE TO THE BORDER
In many countries the media provides policy makers with the raw material necessary for policy making. Brave journalists go to war fronts to report on developments. Gambians however are left with a media that is no longer sure whether coverage of certain developments will not be regarded as subversive. Consequently, rumour has taken the place of the dissemination of information derived from investigative journalism. There is no doubt that there is heightened movement of fighting forces close to our border. There is indication that the joint operation of the force from Guinea Bissau and Senegal were to expel Salifu Sarjo forces from their bases close to the Guinea Bissau border.
The information FOROYAA is receiving which the government needs to confirm is that the forces have now moved to the Gambia border with Senegal.
As election draws near the political parties need to state very clearly what they are going to do to put an end to the Cassamance conflict so that there will be peace and security close to our borders.
In our view, the developments close to our border confirms why government and opposition in the Gambia must work to ensure respect for the rule of law, respect for the citizenry, and free and fair election so that the country can become a model for stability that neighbouring countries can emulate.
The APRC government should show greater flexibility in issuing amnesty, resorting to truth and reconciliation measures rather than punitive ones to handle dissent. There is need for abandoning all political pressures on the people. They should not be subjected to any intimidation by commissioners, chiefs and other officials to support the ruling party. Each Gambian should feel free that he/she can express his or her will without any threat of any sort. When people feel powerful to change countries by the ballot they will not have tolerance for any unconstitutional means of changing government. The APRC government should help build the type of society that will make people feel safe to receive and disseminate information without any intimidation or fear. It is only an informed people who can be free from manipulation. It is only an informed people that can make informed choice and thus lay the corner stone of a society that can retain and change leaderships in a peaceful manner. This is the basis of peace and stability in a country.
Source: Foroyaa Newspaper Burning Issue
Issue No. 67/2006, 18-20 August, 2006
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