Chief of Defence Staff of the Gambia Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Ousman Gomez, has urged soldiers to respect human rights and strengthen their relationship with civilians and other security institutions.

General Gomez made the call while addressing troops at Kafuta Military Camp during his ongoing tour of military installations across the country.

He reminded soldiers that members of the armed forces have a responsibility to protect the rights of civilians rather than violate them, stressing that those rights are guaranteed under The Gambia’s Constitution.

General Gomez said soldiers should not expect their own rights to be respected if they disregard the rights of others.

He said the military’s responsibilities include protecting civilians and their property, as well as safeguarding the country’s territorial integrity.

“Civil-military relations should be maintained at 100 percent and taken to a higher level,” General Gomez said.

“We wear the uniform because of civilians, and it is through taxes paid by civilians that the military is sustained. Therefore, they must be protected.”

The Defence Chief also stressed the importance of cooperation among The Gambia’s security institutions.

While acknowledging that the military may perform some policing-related duties when required, he said soldiers cannot replace the work of the police, immigration officers and other security agencies.

He urged the various security services to complement one another and work collectively in the interest of national peace and security.

General Gomez said stronger cooperation between security personnel and civilians would contribute to preserving stability.

He called on members of the armed forces to remain committed to protecting the country, its people and its peace, while maintaining professional relations with civilians and fellow security institutions.

By Adama Makasuba