By Kebba AF Touray
The Chairperson of the National Assembly’s Select Committee on Gender and Children’s Welfare, Hon. Fatoumatta Njai, has raised concerns over the lack of female representation in the newly formed Special Select Committee tasked with inquiring into the assets of former President Yahya AJJ Jammeh.
Speaking to this medium, Hon. Njai, who represents Banjul South, acknowledged the competence and professionalism of the selected committee members but expressed reservations regarding its composition.
“Whilst I acknowledge the competence of all distinguished members elected to serve this important committee, and knowing full well that they will serve diligently and with utmost professionalism, I have reservations about the fact that there is no female member selected to serve in the said special committee,” she said.
Hon. Njai emphasised that while the Selection Committee did not act outside its mandate—as the Standing Orders remain silent on gender representation in committees—it has been standard practice to include at least one female member in every parliamentary committee.
“Moreover, the motion is also clear as to gender inclusivity, clearly stating gender inclusion ‘as far as practicable,’ and I believe it is in no doubt practical in this case,” she added.
She therefore appealed to the Office of the Clerk, which is mandated under Clause 4(1) and (2) to appoint support staff from both the Assembly Service and other competent personnel, to help address the gender gap by including qualified women in support roles for the committee.
“This missive is by no means suggesting that the current members are ineligible or ineffective,” she clarified. “Rather, it calls for a closer review of the Standing Orders that govern the work of the Assembly, particularly with a view to enhancing gender balance.”
As Chairperson of the Gender and Children’s Welfare Committee and a long-standing advocate for women’s representation, Hon. Njai also took the opportunity to congratulate the members of the Special Committee established by the National Assembly on Thursday, 15th May 2025.
