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The controversy was over the executive’s decision to amend the draft unilaterally, deviating from the consultative approach adopted by the Constitutional Review Commission (CRC).
The deletion of key provisions and the lack of transparency in the process have raised questions about the integrity and public trust of the new draft.
Journalist and activist Yusuf Taylor highlighted these concerns, saying: “The Attorney General initially promised on May 25, 2024 that the draft constitution would be gazetted in mid-June 2024, but this never happened. It was only last week that the draft was finally gazetted, sparking widespread comparisons with previous versions.”
He added: “The process chosen by the executive to promulgate the draft was not consultative at all, unlike the Constitutional Review Commission, and this is now a major obstacle to the bill gaining popular support.”
Taylor further stressed the lack of clarity from the executive branch on the changes made. “The executive branch’s failure to provide explanations for these changes has caused concern among the public. Many are now poring over the differences between the 2024 draft constitution and the 2020 CRC draft constitution,” he noted.
One concerned citizen, Osman Jia, expressed his disappointment. “This is extremely worrying,” he commented. “Trust is vital, especially for those entrusted with leadership positions. When you take the oath of office, you vow to be honest, fearless and selfless. Unfortunately, some people seem to have forgotten this. The lack of transparency and inclusiveness in the entire process has led to major changes that have undermined people’s fragile trust in the system.”
WANEP Executive Director Salama Njie also expressed her disappointment, especially with the removal of the leadership and integrity clauses. “It is very wrong for the executive to unilaterally amend the draft without giving the opinion back to the people,” she criticized. “The removal of the chapters on leadership and integrity is particularly frustrating as it will undoubtedly weaken the Anti-Corruption Commission.”
The ongoing debate on the draft constitution has highlighted public dissatisfaction with what they see as a lack of accountability and a neglect of the consultative principles that should guide such an important national process. As the bill moves forward, citizens and civil society are demanding greater transparency and a more inclusive approach in shaping The Gambia’s future governance framework.
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