Gambia Democratic Congress Latrikunda Sabiji parliamentary candidate has promised to champion the criminalisation of hate speech in the country. 

Ebrima Nyang, 29, told reporters shortly after filing his nomination documents to the Independent Electoral Commission on Monday. 

“My priority is to support fiscal policies and we will work hard to criminalise hate speech,”Mr Nyang said, referring to the toxic tribal rhetoric on social media and other platforms. 

He added: “we all understand how this tribal sentiment which is going on and I believe it should be criminalised because it is not helping us in any way.”

According to him, politics is about the battle of ideas so this is what is expected from politicians and their supporters.

“I believe this should very much be enforced whereby if one makes such a comment a very harsh punishment is waiting for you, and also, we will also champion in addressing the problems of our people.

“This time we are big and better and we are ready and know the problems from 2017 and we are addressing them.”

Meanwhile, Mr Nyang said he will also advocate for the development of his people such as ensuring that the shortage of water is addressed.

The teacher-turned-politician highlighted some developments he has been rendering to his constituency.

However, he blamed the current National Assembly member for Latrikunda Sabiji for not engaging the people who voted for him.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba