‘We Have To Learn To Forgive’

By Abdoulie John

In wake of the launching of the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC), former Vice-President, Fatoumata Tambajang, has called on Gambians to “learn to forgive” in order to move forward.

She made this remark on Monday during an interview with reporters, shortly after President Adama Barrow swore into office the 11 members of the country’s truth commission at Dunes hotel in Kotu, about 8 km away from Banjul.

Fatoumata Tambajang was instrumental in cementing The Gambia’s opposition unity as political parties were bracing up for December 2016 Presidential elections. She is chairperson of the coalition that defeated Gambia’s longtime ruler, ending 22 years of dictatorship during he brutally suppressed civic liberties and made arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearances, summary executions the order of the day.

Tambajang expressed hope that The Gambia will clear the hurdles lying ahead and embraces the path of reconciliation.

“This is a small nation. Our diversity constitutes our strength,” she added.

Weighing on the launching of the much-awaited Commission, she recalled that it took the country a lot of time to uproot ex-dictator Jammeh.

“I have never thought that [Yahya] Jammeh will relinquish power. I was determined to be in the forefront of the battle to liberate The Gambia,” she stated.

She revisited the country’s political history, saying that so many parties tried but failed to make any headway. She thanked God for allowing her to be part of the Coalition that freed Gambia from the chains of tyranny.

“I am happy that women are members of the Commission because they bear the brunt of atrocities. It is encouraging that various emphasized the need for the truth commission to take into consideration the concerns of women and children,” she said.

Tambajang further lauded the appointment of Dr. Lamin J. Sise as TRRC Chair, saying he has strong leadership qualities to deliver on expectations.

Ends

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