1. i. Judicial Officers’ Remuneration Bill & the National Assembly Salaries and Pensions Bill: What would be your approach?
“The National Assembly is the nucleus of this country. While there are executive and judicial branches, the legislative arm is the most important. It regulates all other state institutions.
As a representative of my people, I’ll ensure that whatever I endorse or reject resonates with their perspectives and opinions. On this bill, I’ll do the needful—consult my electorate to understand their stance. I am in Parliament because of them.”
ii. Have you reached out to your constituents regarding this bill?
“The bill is not yet before the National Assembly. It must be introduced by the Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs (MOFEA). Once introduced, we will subject it to thorough scrutiny. During this process, I will examine the bill in depth before reaching out to my constituents.”
iii. How would the sentiments of your constituents influence your opinion on the bill?
“Hugely! Their opinions will solely determine my decisions. As I mentioned, I am a people’s representative. Whatever decision I make must align with their interests. If the bill is introduced, I will plan and schedule consultations with organized societies and residents in my constituency to gauge their thoughts on the bill.”
iv. How much did the public outrage on social media and the recent protest regarding this bill influence your thoughts?
“The public outrage is significant and reflects some segments of the electorate’s stance. I may share their view that the bill is not a priority nor timely, given the state of our economy. However, that alone will not determine my decision. My constituents have the final say.
Some people among us are not well-acquainted with the bills introduced to the National Assembly. They haven’t read the bill to understand its provisions and implications. They tend to join the outcry without fully grasping the details. Genuine statesmanship requires a thorough understanding of what you advocate for. This is why I will reintroduce the bill to my people, explain its details, and then allow them to decide on a stance.”
V. What if their stance differs from your opinion on the bill? Which side would you lean toward?
“If their perception of the bill differs from mine, then my personal views don’t necessarily count. Instead, I will prioritize theirs, as I am here to represent the views of the entire Latrikunda Sabiji Constituency, not those of my family or friends. In simple terms, the will of my constituents will always be my priority.”
2. i. The Draft Constitution Bill: First Attempt. Why did the bill fail to pass?
“The bill was very consultative and inclusive, even involving Gambians in the diaspora. It represented the will and voice of the Gambian people. The former legislative council disrespected and dishonored Gambians by voting against the Draft Constitution after millions of taxpayers’ money was spent.
It’s embarrassing for a few MPs to reject the bill for personal gain, influenced by political figures or parties, rather than considering their constituents’ plight. The deliberations from some MPs were arrogant and uncalled for. Seeing the bill butchered like that was a horrible experience—one of the worst days in our legislative history.”
ii. Who is to blame?
“Of course, the ruling party’s MPs and their allies are to blame. They rejected the bill to serve their bosses’ selfish agenda, fearing it would limit the President’s powers. This shows a lack of respect for the people’s will and a lack of genuine democratic principles. It’s sad to see MPs dance to the President’s tune, allowing him to influence their decisions.
Lawmaking is our domain, not the President’s. I hope MPs learn from the public outrage and rectify their actions by passing the Draft Constitution Bill.”
iii. Potential Second Attempt: How Optimistic Are You for Its Success?
“Hopes are high, and efforts continue to bring the Draft Constitution back. I believe it will be reconsidered before the end of the year. MPs need to reach a compromise and adopt a new constitution that will lead us to a referendum, ushering in modern democratic laws for our country.
This new constitution should be in place before the 2026 presidential election. The Barrow-led administration must reintroduce the Draft Constitution to the National Assembly.”
TheHeraldWhistleBlower 