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Momodou
Denmark
11513 Posts |
 Posted - 14 Apr 2010 : 22:37:37
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Foroyaa Editorial: Debate Over Permits for Political Parties
14-04-10
It should now be clear to all Gambians that all the debates in and outside the National Assembly have revealed that there is no standing policy to deny opposition political parties permits to use public address systems. Logistical problems have been given as basis for failure to issue permits. Questions have been raised why the ruling party has not suffered the same fate. Others have questioned why other political parties have not applied for permits even though there is no indication that they would be denied permits. It is however very clear that if other parties applied and are given permits the authorities would be rightly accused of discrimination. The task now is to put this phase of administrative blockage of political rights behind us and move forward.
Foroyaa is of the opinion that the ruling and opposition parties should not continue to belabour on what is already clear. A new page is necessary which will not be characterised by any form of discrimination of political parties.
What is evident is that the Inspector General of Police is a public officer. He is expected to make decisions on the basis of the law and standards of best practice. It is hoped that the Minister of the Interior could sense that this is a time for creating the environment for genuine multiparty activity.
A code of Conduct exists for public servants and all those who abide by the provisions in administering a public office not to make errors of judgment. Section 222 paragraph 3 reads: “A public officer shall not, in the course of his or her official functions and without lawful excuse do or cause to be done any action which is prejudicial to the rights of any other person.
4. In the exercise of his or her duties, a public officer shall avoid nepotism and favouritism.
Paragraph 13a further states that
“A person holding an office in a Public service or any disciplined force shall not -
(a) allow his or her Political inclinations to interfere with the discharge of his or her official duties;”
Once these provisions are adhered to, no public servant would be found wanting in discharging one’s duties to the satisfaction of the public. Let’s hope that with the release of Femi Peters by the president a new page will be turned for multi party politics to flourish without hindrance to enable the people to make their choice of leadership without being subjected to any form of intimiidation, irrespective of party affiliation.
Source: Foroyaa Online
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A clear conscience fears no accusation - proverb from Sierra Leone |
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