Findings of an NDI assessment mission to The Gambia

The purpose of the mission was to gain a better understanding of political developments in The Gambia since the July 22, 1994, coup d"etat, and to respond to requests for assistance from the Armed Forces Provisional Ruling Council (AFPRC), deposed president Dawda Jawara, and Gambian citizens residing in and outside the country. According to the delegation, while some steps have been taken in planning Gambia"s return to democratic, civilian rule by July 1996, there is a need to clarify and refine the transition timetable and to broaden the transition process and encourage increased participation by various segments of Gambian civil society. Specific areas in which NDI could assist these efforts are identified. Most Gambians interviewed believed that despite the AFPRC"s repeated statements of intent to adhere to the transition timetable, the military"s commitment to withdraw from the government is called into question by other public statements and actions. These Gambians, as well as independent observers, think that to overcome the climate of uncertainty and suspicion, it will be important to assure the Gambian people -- early on and as frequently as possible, in words and in deeds -- that the commitment to return the country to democratic, civilian rule is real and irreversible. Gambians want to believe that the AFPRC is truly committed to this goal. (Author abstract, modified)