Discussions on constitutional drafts in The Gambia have not resulted in agreement, risking political stability. The lack of term limits in the 1997 constitution exacerbates tensions. Challenges in creating a new constitution include parliamentary approval and public referendum. Calls for international intervention emphasize the need for a stable governance framework and better cooperation between parties.
In The Gambia, ongoing discussions among the political leadership regarding new constitutional drafts for 2020 and 2024 have not yielded satisfactory results. This situation poses a significant risk as leaders from the two principal parties struggle to reach consensus, which could jeopardize the nation’s political stability. Past political agreements, notably transforming a three-year transition into a five-year presidential term, illustrate a troubling trend of convenience over democratic principles, rooted in the flawed 1997 constitution that lacks term limits.
The challenges facing the constitutional reform include the necessity of Parliamentary approval and a public referendum. The current political landscape is marred by deep divisions among leaders, threatening the spirit of Gambia’s democratic transition. As the nation approaches its 60th anniversary without a new constitution, it highlights a dire need for fundamental changes in governance philosophy, prioritizing democracy over personal power ambitions.
The international community, including the UN, AU, EU, and ECOWAS, should actively engage the Gambian leadership to stress the importance of establishing a new constitutional framework conducive to peace and stability. Given the heightened political rivalries and tensions that have fueled this constitutional crisis, external support and collaboration are critical to overcoming these hurdles. A government must be accountable to its citizens, necessitating a cooperative relationship between the government and opposition parties.
Reflecting on the past, many Gambians question why simply amending the outdated 1997 constitution was not pursued instead of embarking on a complex and costly new constitution effort, which has faced significant political obstacles. The 2020 draft constitution was criticized for being overly intricate and detached from public sentiment. Furthermore, the current president’s significant constraints may appear unjust as effective governance requires a balanced distribution of power.
To avert potential democratic collapse, political leaders should consider alternative electoral frameworks, such as a 51% majority requirement in presidential elections, to foster compromise and inclusivity. The successful establishment of a new constitution hinges on collaboration among politicians, ensuring it serves Gambian society’s best interests and addresses the current governance challenges.
The constitutional impasse in The Gambia reveals critical political divisions and highlights the failure of leaders to prioritize democratic principles over personal power. Key challenges include the need for Parliamentary approval and a referendum, compounded by political bitterness. International support is essential to navigate these issues and establish a constitutional framework that benefits all citizens. A collaborative effort among political leaders is necessary to achieve long-term democratic stability.
Original Source: thepoint.gm
