The European Union delegation met with The Gambia’s National Assembly yesterday to review progress on implementing key recommendations issued by the EU after the country’s 2021 elections.
The delegation led by Ambassador Immaculada Roca I Cortes, was welcomed by Deputy Speaker Seedy SK Njie.
The EU outlined 20 recommendations, with 15 centered on legal reforms aimed at enhancing electoral transparency and fairness. The delegation emphasized the importance of broad engagement across the political landscape, including input from political parties, civil society organizations, and National Assembly members, to ensure effective implementation.
They also raised concerns about public access to information on transparency measures and legislative progress. In response, Deputy Speaker Njie shared ongoing initiatives to boost public engagement, including establishing a dedicated communications unit, organizing committee-led town hall meetings, conducting oversight activities, and live-streaming parliamentary sessions to provide open media access.
Discussions also included plans to continue consultations with civil society and other stakeholders. Deputy Speaker Njie assured the delegation that consultations on the draft constitution would resume when tabled, emphasizing the role of civil society, political parties, and international partners in shaping The Gambia’s legislative framework.
Report by Sang Donal Mendy