Chief Justice Hassan B. Jallow has called for sustained investment in human capital, respect for democratic values and peaceful elections as The Gambia prepares for a busy electoral cycle.

Speaking at the third National Dialogue, attended by President Adama Barrow and other senior officials, Justice Jallow said no nation can achieve lasting development without harnessing its human resources, particularly its youthful population.

He stressed that investment in education, training and capacity building must remain a national priority, describing human capital as both the engine and beneficiary of development.

Justice Jallow also underscored the importance of democracy grounded in the freely expressed will of the people through fair and credible elections. He noted that The Gambia will hold presidential, parliamentary and local government elections over the next two years, as scheduled by the Independent Electoral Commission.

While describing elections as the gateway to democracy, he cautioned that they are not its final destination, urging all stakeholders — political parties, candidates, the media, voters and state institutions — to ensure the process remains free, fair and peaceful.

He called for respectful political discourse, rejection of hate speech and division, and the peaceful resolution of all electoral disputes in accordance with the law.

Justice Jallow said The Gambia’s long experience with elections since independence should inspire confidence, adding that national unity and adherence to democratic values are essential to achieving peace, progress and prosperity.