The CSO coalition, led by Gambia Participates, demands the reinstatement of Clause 14 for Diaspora voting rights, emphasizing constitutional compliance, preventing disenfranchisement, feasibility, and the promotion of democratic principles. Both Marr Nyang and Salieu Tall outline the implications of removing this clause and call for timely action before the 2026 elections.
The civil society organization (CSO) coalition is advocating for the immediate reinstatement of Clause 14, ensuring Gambians residing abroad can exercise their constitutional voting rights. CEO Marr Nyang from Gambia Participates (GP) recently discussed the importance of this clause, citing the 1997 Constitution, which guarantees voting rights for all Gambians above 18, reinforced by the Elections Act of 1996 and a Supreme Court ruling in 2021.
The CSO coalition emphasizes the need to reinstate Clause 14 to uphold the voting rights of Gambians abroad, prevent disenfranchisement, and strengthen democratic principles. With the 2026 presidential elections approaching, they urge swift action from the National Assembly and government to protect these constitutional rights and acknowledge the diaspora’s contributions.
Original Source: thepoint.gm
