Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Major General Ousman Gomez has warned personnel of the Gambia Armed Forces (GAF) against tribalism and ethnic sentiments, urging soldiers to uphold unity, discipline and respect for fundamental human rights.
Major General Gomez issued the warning as he commenced a nationwide tour of military installations aimed at assessing the operational readiness, welfare and working conditions of troops across the country.
Addressing personnel at the Njongon Military Base in the North Bank Region during the first leg of the tour, the CDS described tribalism as a serious threat to the cohesion and effectiveness of military institutions, particularly in Africa.
“There is a cancer that tries to eat away armies, especially in Africa, tribalism,” Major General Gomez told the troops.
“I am ordering you directly: desist from tribalism or tribal sentiments! In this uniform, we do not see Mandinka, Fula, Wolof, or Jola. We see soldiers. We see Gambians. We see brothers and sisters in arms. Our only tribe is the Gambia Armed Forces.”
The CDS stressed that the military must remain united and professional regardless of the ethnic or regional backgrounds of its personnel. He warned that the high command would take disciplinary action against individuals whose conduct threatens unity within the armed forces.
Major General Gomez also placed strong emphasis on the relationship between the military and the civilian population, reminding soldiers that their primary responsibility is to protect the people they serve.
“You are protectors of the people, not their oppressors,” he said.
He instructed personnel to uphold human rights and treat civilians with respect and dignity in all circumstances, whether on or off duty.
“Uphold human rights in every single interaction. Treat every civilian, whether in Farafenni, on or off duty, with respect and dignity,” he added.
According to the CDS, public confidence remains critical to the effectiveness and reputation of the armed forces. He urged soldiers to avoid conduct that could undermine the trust built between GAF and the Gambian population.
“The trust of the Gambian people is our greatest weapon. Safeguard it fiercely. We have worked too hard to raise this institution’s profile to let a few bad actions ruin our reputation,” Major General Gomez said.
The nationwide tour is expected to take the CDS and members of the military high command to various bases and formations across the country.
The exercise will provide the leadership of the GAF with an opportunity to obtain first-hand information on the operational conditions, logistical challenges and welfare of personnel, while also engaging directly with troops on matters affecting their duties.
