Speaking to AG Radio, Mr. Sulayman Ben Suwareh shares his insights on the dangers associated with politicizing the Gambia Armed Forces (GAF). A few days ago, Colonel Lamin Sanyang issued a press statement condemning both Lt. Colonel (Rtd) Samsudeen Sarr and Hon. Essa Mbye Faal the leader of APP_SOBEYA political party, accusing them of trying to politicize the army.
Mr. Ben Suwareh stated that in Gambia, it is unique for a soldier to compose a press statement criticising politicians in order to please the government. When soldiers are usually promoted not due to their qualifications but because of their connections with the president, situations like this arise.
If there are issues that require the Gambia Armed Forces (GAF) to engage with politicians, these should have been addressed by the Ministry of Defence rather than by Colonel Sanyang. Mr. Suwareh remarked.
The army is home to exceptional young men, educated and expertly trained at various military colleges across the globe. However, a nation that relies on foreigners for its security will not see its army impacted.
The marginalisation and disrespect towards the army by the state occurred during Sir Dawda’s presidency, which ultimately led to the 1994 coup d’état by Yahya Jammeh. If the current government does not address this issue effectively, the same problem may arise once more, which would be detrimental to the country. Mr. Suwareh added.
