It is deeply troubling and disheartening that after a court of law has delivered its ruling, the executive would still exercise its powers to rearrest a man who has been granted freedom. This raises serious concerns about respect for the rule of law in our country.
Ousainou Bojang spent nearly two years in detention while undergoing trial. If, at the end of that process, the court finds him not guilty and grants him freedom, then that decision must be respected. Any action to override or undermine such a ruling is unjustifiable and sets a dangerous precedent.
A nation that fails to respect the rule of law, that neglects the rights of its people, and that disregards the supremacy of the courts is a nation heading toward failure. Justice is the foundation of freedom, peace, and national harmony. Without justice, we open the door to instability and fear.
The Gambia must not become a country where power overrides justice. We must be guided by fairness, truth, and the principles of democracy.
If there is a crime to be answered for, then the proper authorities must continue their investigations and bring the real perpetrators to justice. But an innocent man, as declared by the court, must not be subjected to further injustice.
Ousainou Bojang deserves his freedom, and that freedom must be respected.
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