By Mariama Marong
As the 2024 Draft Constitution moves towards its second reading in the National Assembly, the National Council for Civic Education (NCCE) has concluded a constituency-level consultative dialogue in Bakau Newtown on Sunday, June 1.
The dialogue, part of a nationwide outreach funded by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), aims to engage citizens and their elected representatives in discussions about the draft constitution. The initiative, which began in the Upper River Region, is now wrapping up in the Kanifing Municipality and Banjul.
Held under the theme “A New Constitution for a New Republic: Get Informed, Get Involved,” the Bakau session offered a platform for constituents to learn about the draft and share their views.
Speaking on behalf of NCCE, Programme Manager Ansumana Ceesay emphasized the importance of civic education in fostering democratic participation. He said the new draft constitution, if adopted, will be a cornerstone for strengthening governance and promoting inclusive development.
Ceesay highlighted key areas addressed in the draft, including national sovereignty, citizenship, fundamental human rights and freedoms, and provisions for inclusive participation—particularly for women, youth, and persons with disabilities.
Hon. Madi Ceesay, National Assembly Member for Serekunda, encouraged constituents to engage meaningfully with the draft. “It is the responsibility of all Gambians to understand what the draft entails,” he said, noting that laws are essential in shaping a democratic society.
He added that members of parliament are elected to represent the people’s will. “If we fail to reflect your views, you have the power to hold us accountable during elections,” he told attendees.
Participants at the dialogue welcomed the opportunity to engage directly with their representatives and the draft text. Kaddy Njie, a resident of Bakau, praised the NCCE for facilitating the forum, describing it as an important step in helping citizens understand the proposed legal framework.
Other attendees, including Lamin Sanneh, called for longer and more frequent sessions to deepen public understanding of the draft. “Constitutional matters are complex. We need more time to engage meaningfully,” he said.
Aja Fatou Sallah from Madina Bamako echoed similar sentiments, urging more consistent engagement between parliamentarians and rural communities. “Without NCCE, it would be difficult for some of us in rural areas to have this level of interaction with our representatives,” she said.
Mama Saidy urged National Assembly Members to set aside personal or partisan interests and prioritize the national interest during deliberations on the draft. “This constitution is not just about today; it’s about future generations,” she said.
Other speakers emphasized the need for the new constitution to address key governance issues, including improved representation for women. “We want to see more women in parliament,” said Fatou Matta. “This draft should not only promote women’s rights but ensure women’s protection and empowerment.”
The NCCE says it will continue to support civic engagement around the draft constitution as the country prepares for the next phase of the legislative process.
