By: Alieu Ceesay
Following multiple unsuccessful attempts to enact the draft constitution, President Barrow has set December 2024 as the date for a referendum on the new constitution.
In the State of the Nation Address, President Adama Barrow of the Republic of The Gambia presented his government’s plans and achievements, fulfilling the constitutional mandate of the Gambia.
Speaking at the Parliament in Banjul, President Barrow told Gambians that the country will hold a referendum to reintroduce the draft constitution, which has been in a coma for past years after the lawmakers of the Gambia rejected it.
“Since 2017, my administration has embarked on significant legal reforms. Our efforts include introducing a new Constitution, and we remain committed to pursuing it this year. It is hoped that a referendum on the new Constitution will be held in December 2024.” President Barrow said
The president said plans are underway to close mile two prisons based on the conclusions of the Truth Reconciliation and Reparations Commission’s recommendations and other human rights reports on the central jail at the capital’s entrance, Banjul.
“The entity will be transferred to Jeshwang or relocated to a new site in the Greater Banjul area.”
The President also assured the farming communities that they would be given Rice, groundnuts, maize, and bean seeds to help them boost production.
“There is already enough fertilizer in the country, and it will be sold to the farmers at a subsidized price at different locations across the country.”
He further stated that the government will procure eighty tractors and twenty rotavator boats for year-round deployment to support the national food security drive.
The head of state stated that his administration is actively reviewing its fishing license regime to increase protection for artisanal fishers and ensure fair and sustainable management of the country’s fisheries resources.
“Crime and the cost of living are indeed daunting challenges. Crime is a terrible hindrance to peace, security, and progress, and we condemn all types of criminal activities.”
He continued: “I assure the nation that we are determined to reduce both the crime rate and the rising cost of essential commodities, although we are aware of the complexities embedded in these two global threats to peace.”
The address offered an update on the government’s performance throughout the 2023 calendar year, concentrating on policies, programs, legislative frameworks, and plans.
