Africa-Press – Gambia. The prolonged presence of Senegalese and ECOWAS forces at Gambia’s State House has drawn sharp criticism from local leaders, who warn that the continued deployment threatens the country’s sovereignty.
Landing B. Sanneh, Chairman of the Mansakonko Area Council, said the nine-year stay of foreign troops goes far beyond the initial purpose of stabilizing the country after a bloodless political impasse. “It is getting too late for us as Gambians to silently accept our independence and sovereignty being compromised in broad daylight,” Sanneh said.
The Mansakonko chairman highlighted that while The Gambia benefited from foreign support during times of political uncertainty, the ongoing presence of Senegalese forces is no longer justified. He questioned the strategic role of these troops, asking whether they are engaged in meaningful capacity-building or simply maintaining checkpoints and escorting the President. “Our national security is the responsibility of Gambians. We must empower our own forces instead of relying indefinitely on foreign soldiers,” he added.
Sanneh referenced historical precedents, noting that former President Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara ended the prolonged presence of Senegalese forces after the 1981 attempted coup, demonstrating that national security can be restored without long-term occupation by foreign troops. He argued that The Gambia’s current situation undermines the country’s hard-won recognition and status in the ECOWAS sub-region.
The chairman stressed that the government must provide clarity to citizens on the rationale behind the continued military presence. “Since the political impasse, there has been no sign of instability or chaos to warrant the ongoing stay of foreign forces, especially in the State House,” he said, calling for a safe and transparent withdrawal.
Sanneh expressed appreciation for the support provided by ECOWAS and Senegal during the 2016 political transition, but warned that overstay may defeat the original purpose of the deployment. He urged regional partners to respect The Gambia’s sovereignty and allow the country’s own security forces to take full responsibility.
“The Government of HE President Barrow, ECOWAS, and the Senegalese authorities need to transparently inform Gambians why this suppression of our national security infrastructure continues,” Sanneh said. “We cannot remain silent any longer; our nation deserves to breathe the full air of sovereignty.
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