Source: SMBC News
A leading women’s rights activist in The Gambia on Friday officially launched her candidacy for President of The Gambia with an anthem of equality and unity for change and progress.
Dr. Isatou Touray, who is the Executive Director of The Gambia Committee on Traditional Practices (GAMCOTRAP) is Gambia’s first woman to declare her intention to stand for president as an Independent Candidate.
Touray saif “if elected, I will restore the sovereignty of the people, end impunity and decentralize authority and power”. She added “I intend to serve only one term, during which period, I would work with all the existing parties and Gambians ready and willing to steer The Gambia towards a direction that will enable it to respond to the needs and aspirations of the people.”
Hundreds of supporters and opposition members with hope for change in the upcoming December 2016 presidential elections graced the historical launching.
With a standing ovation and Gambia’s flag been raised all over the hall by the crowd in attendance, the woman of substance and Independent Presidential candidate Dr. Isatou Touray mounted the podium to give her acceptance speech.
Presidential hopeful Touray has challenged conventional cultures in The Gambia for decades facing stiff challenges from the powerful religious and traditional elites, especially in her fight to end female genital mutilation. Touray had travelled across the country than most Gambians and heard stories directly from the people, a lot of whom she connects with over their immense desire for change.
She has vowed to build strong democratic institutions and to serve only a one-five year term.
“I will not serve more than a term of 5 years. I am committed, if elected, to work with all those who have the capacity and commitment to salvage the Gambia as it titters to a state of collapse. Together, we can bring the change that is needed,” she said in her historic speech.
For the presidential candidate, true democracy deserves the participation of all citizens based on the common good.
Touray’s campaign manager and longtime colleague and friend Amie Bojang-Sissohore said the renowned women’s right defender can be trusted to lead the affairs of the country, restore justice and the rights of citizens.