With Binta Jaiteh
Interview with Hon. Suwaibou Touray
Our Guest of the Week for this edition is no other person than the National Assembly Member for Wuli East, Hon. Suwaibou Touray.
Touray, a journalist-turned-politician and Chairperson of the National Assembly’s Public Petitions Committee, spoke to The Voice on the human rights situation, corruption, irregular migration, youth empowerment, and recent remarks linked to former Gambian President, Yahya Jammeh.
According to him, while The Gambia has made progress on human rights since the political transition, weak implementation of recommendations remains a major concern.
Q: How would you describe the current state of human rights in The Gambia?
A: The human rights situation has greatly improved compared to the past. However, there are still challenges, particularly weak implementation. Arbitrary detention has significantly reduced, but it still occurs. When the National Human Rights Commission or the National Assembly makes recommendations on violations, the state is often unwilling or slow to implement them. That is a serious challenge. We also continue to see violations such as violence against women.
Q: What are the effects of corruption on society?
A: Corruption creates serious problems and can lead to conflict. If you carefully study the Auditor General’s reports, you will see that the country is losing billions of dalasis due to corruption. Weak implementation of accountability measures remains the main issue, and there is also a fear of sliding back into practices associated with the Second Republic.
Q: What do you see as the main cause of irregular migration?
A: Irregular migration is driven largely by youth unemployment and economic hardship. Young people want to be productive and independent, and to support their families. When opportunities are limited, many feel compelled to take dangerous routes abroad.
Q: Do you think young people are adequately empowered by the government?
A: There is some level of empowerment, but it is not sufficient. If youth empowerment is strengthened, irregular migration will be reduced. Many lives have been lost in the Mediterranean Sea, and the numbers are alarming. Governments must urgently intervene to prevent further loss of life.
Q: What advice would you give to the National Human Rights Commission and the National Assembly Committee on Human Rights?
A: The parliamentary committee should be strengthened to effectively carry out its oversight role, not only over the Human Rights Commission but also over government institutions. The Human Rights Commission must represent victims, act independently, and make decisions based on accountability and justice.
Q: Audios circulating on social media refer to a possible homecoming of former president Yahya Jammeh. What is your reaction?
A: The former head of state governed the country for 22 years in an undemocratic manner.
Q: Do you think such statements can cause fear among citizens and victims?
A: Yes. If he were to re-enter politics, it would create serious anxiety, especially among victims. Their fears are justified, given the history of human rights violations. We must remind supporters of the former president that dictatorship will not be repeated after 22 years of brutal governance.
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With Binta Jaiteh Interview with Hon. Suwaibou Touray Our Guest of the Week for this edition is no other person…
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