The Gambia faces a significant constitutional crisis due to unresolved disagreements among political leaders on the draft constitutions for 2020 and 2024. The previously extended presidential term and the absence of term limits have complicated the situation. Urgent calls for international support and collaborative governance underscore the necessity for political unity to restore democracy and create a new constitution.
The political dialogue surrounding the constitutional issue in The Gambia has thus far failed to produce satisfactory outcomes for the public. The inability of the leaders of the two principal political parties to reach consensus on the 2020 and 2024 draft constitutions has placed the nation in a troubling political landscape. Their decision to transform the originally agreed three-year transitional period into a full five-year presidential term exemplifies a problematic alliance that has not endured well.
The foundation of this five-year mandate stems from the 1997 constitution; however, it is crucial to highlight a significant oversight—the lack of term limits which these leaders appear to overlook or disregard. This oversight has proven detrimental to the country’s democratic framework. Presently, two significant obstacles are obstructing the implementation of a new constitution: parliamentary approval and a national referendum.
Regrettably, major political discord between leaders jeopardizes the progress of The Gambia’s democratic transition. At sixty years of independence, it is incomprehensible and unacceptable for the country to lack a new constitution. If the pursuit of power supersedes democratic principles among political leaders, the fabric of democracy becomes increasingly fragile.
There is an urgent need for a concerted effort toward establishing a new constitution that reflects the aspirations of a renewed Gambia. The international community, which has previously supported the nation’s transition, must actively address the current constitutional deadlock. Institutions such as the United Nations, African Union, European Union, and Economic Community of West African States, along with other development partners, should apply pressure to the political leadership to create a robust legal framework to foster governance, peace, and stability.
The roots of the ongoing constitutional crisis lie in the pervasive political animosity and rivalry that have emerged in recent years. Governance that genuinely represents the populace requires equitable responsibilities shared between the government and the opposition. Citizens frequently question why amending the 1997 constitution was not pursued rather than embarking on the costly endeavor of drafting a new constitution that has since failed to gain traction.
The intricate and literate nature of the draft CRC 2020 constitution may have contributed to its rejection. Additionally, it must be acknowledged that the prevailing sentiment against dictatorship has unjustly impacted the current government, leading to the significant reduction of presidential executive powers. It is essential for some authority to remain vested in the presidency to ensure effective governance.
To avert potential regression of democratic processes, politicians could consider adopting a 51% threshold for presidential elections instead of a mere majority, fostering a more collaborative political environment. Ultimately, the resolution of these constitutional challenges rests squarely with the political leaders, who must prioritize the best interest of the nation in their endeavors to draft a new constitution.
In summary, The Gambia confronts a constitutional impasse stemming from political discord among its leaders, which undermines the nation’s democratic progression. The failure to achieve a new constitution reflects not only a hesitation to address past shortcomings but also a disregard for the principles of governance. A collaborative political approach is imperative to restore democratic integrity and ensure stability within the country.
Original Source: thepoint.gm
