President Adama Barrow’s administration has introduced amendments to the previously rejected Constitutional Review Commission (CRC) draft, reigniting debate over constitutional reform in The Gambia. This move has prompted concerns about the process’s transparency and inclusivity.
Mr. Saikou Camara, a Gambian author and member of the opposition United Democratic Party (UDP), voiced his concerns: “The amendments appear to sideline democratic principles by strengthening the presidency at the expense of broader checks and balances. It’s crucial for all stakeholders to be involved in shaping a constitution that truly reflects the will and aspirations of the Gambian people.”
Saikou Camara has voiced strong concerns regarding the current approach to the Gambia’s constitutional draft, asserting that it would be a “grave mistake” for opposition members of parliament to allow such a crucial document to rest solely in the hands of the National People’s Party (NPP) members.
He emphasizes that the NPP has focused on “safeguarding President Adama Barrow’s political interests” rather than prioritizing the nation’s welfare.
Camara argues that a functional democracy should reflect the majority’s will while protecting their rights. Yet, he believes the Barrow draft constitution favors the President and his cabinet, potentially exposing Gambians to authoritarianism. He notes that under Barrow’s leadership, the political environment has become dominated by personal ambition and rivalry, particularly about the United Democratic Party (UDP) and its leader, Honorable Ousainou Darboe.
In his call to action, Camara urges all Gambians to demand accountability and transparency from President Barrow and his administration. He stresses the importance of adhering to campaign promises and maintaining transparency in matters of national significance. He concludes with a demand for a “dignified and democratic constitution” that meets the needs and aspirations of the Gambian people.
Camara’s statement emphasizes the importance of accountability and transparency in safeguarding democracy. He argues that the need for a new constitution goes beyond superficial changes; it requires the establishment of robust, just, and equitable laws that protect all citizens. He highlights that advocating for good governance is rooted in understanding human fallibility and aims to ensure fairness, free from bias or discrimination.
Camara, identifying as a member of the United Democratic Party (UDP), stresses the importance of collaboration among political parties to build the nation, asserting that differing visions should not compromise the collective national interests of the Gambian people.
He calls for engagement with all stakeholders regarding the 2020 Constitutional Review Commission draft and firmly opposes any compromise that undermines the will of the Gambian population.
He acknowledges the inevitability of disagreements in nation-building but warns against allowing these divisions to lead to hate or undermine democracy.
Camara urges National Assembly members to reject President Barrow’s draft constitution and advocate for a consultative meeting to revisit the 2020 CRC draft, emphasizing that failing to do so would be detrimental to all Gambians’ national interests and aspirations.
The CRC, established by the National Assembly in 2018 and composed of 11 commissioners appointed by President Barrow, submitted its Final Draft in March 2020.
However, on September 22, 2020, the draft failed to secure the necessary 75% majority in the National Assembly, mainly due to opposition from 23 members perceived as President Barrow.
The president and cabinet recently amended the CRC draft without including key stakeholders. The revised version was re-gazetted on August 14, 2024.
The National People’s People’s Party (NPP), led by President Barrow, currently holds a majority in parliament. This majority means that if the revised bill progresses to the committee stage after the second reading, it will only need a simple majority to advance to a referendum, as opposed to the previous 75% requirement. This shift could significantly influence the bill’s approval and potential modifications.
