The CoPG is deeply concerned about the country’s recent deteriorating security situation. The armed robberies, mysterious murders, rape and kidnappings are reasons for great concern amongst the citizenry. The question is, where is the blueprint for the security sector reforms?
The security services are among the most underperforming institutions in their role as institutions responsible for protecting life and property. The lack of equipment or gear for these important public services, particularly the police and the fire and rescue services, is caused by the wave of crime, insecurity, and fire occurrences in recent months.
We urge the government to be urgent in the execution of the security sector reforms, which will not only reduce crime but equip the security personnel with the necessary and relevant skills in the execution of their duties, roles and responsibilities. The deteriorating morals amongst service personnel, particularly in dispensing internal security, is also a concern due to the lack of proper selection, recruitment and training for security personnel. This has been manifested by the disciplinary actions taken against a policewoman and soldier who knew little or nothing of the code of conduct and core values enshrined in their profession. They may be blamed for their attitude and lack of proper training.
The CoPG calls for adequate funds to be appropriated to the security services to equip them and improve their working conditions. The lack of mobility and gear has always been a significant constraint for the security sector, and we advise the Minister of Finance to allocate enough to improve this vital sector. It is evident that in most cases, monies or allocations for the Ministry of Interior and Defense are most used for irrelevant expenditures such as travel and mobility for other institutions at short notice.
This is regarded as a presumed attitude normalised by the Minister of Finance to divert allocated funds from critical sectors, such as internal security, to suit personal or other interests. The CoPG urges the government to recognise security as the prerequisite for peace and stability and to ensure swift and urgent steps are taken to reduce the crime rate. It is a fact that there is no crime-free country, but it can be controlled to the minimum limit, especially in a small country such as The Gambia, with less than 3.5 million in population.
The government needs to take all necessary steps to not only reduce crime but initiate and train personnel in crime preventive measures through community and particularly youth involvement. This education should be complemented by other curriculum activities that not only involve the public in activities but also equip them with entrepreneurship skills.
Finally, we, the CoPG, are convinced that the security sector reforms cannot be achieved with the 1997 or the executive’s 2024 constitutions. Our struggle continues.
The Coalition of Progressive Gambians.
