The Coalition of Progressive Gambians (CoPG) has voiced its dissatisfaction with the cabinet’s rejection of Section 14 of the Election Bill presented to the National Assembly that would allow Gambians living abroad to vote in elections while residing in foreign countries.
In a letter addressed to the SeniGambia news, the CoPG executive described the decision by National Assembly members to deny voting rights to citizens in the diaspora during elections as “discriminatory”.
“It could also be described as an official act of discrimination contrary to section 33 of the 1997 constitution,’’ CoPG pointed out.
Highlighting further frustrations about the rejection of the bill, CoPG executives believed such a decision by Members of Parliament did not reflect the aspiration of Gambians abroad despite financial contribution in national development.
“We strongly believe that the action of the NAMs does not reflect the aspirations of Gambians, as they support financial contribution of family members. Thus remittances sent to the Gambia in 2024, according to the Gambia government, amounts to 775 million, which is equivalent to 56 billion more than 31% of the Gross Domestic Product,’’ the CoPG stated.
Moreover, the CoPG executive further called on the President to condemn the entire 2024 bill at the National Assembly, stating failure to do so would cause them take to the streets.
“We call on the president to consider the condemnation from all concerned Gambians at home and abroad not to accent the bill until the inclusion of the diaspora voting is effected,” the coalition said, adding: “For the information of all stakeholders, CoPG will mobilize Gambians to protest against the unconstitutional rejection of the diaspora voting that disfranchises them as Gambians,’’ they emphasise.
CoPG has called for the reconsideration of the bill, emphasizing that Gambians living abroad make significant contributions to the country’s economy.
They urged individuals from all walks of life to come together and uphold the principles of good governance, particularly by encouraging citizen participation.
