Deputy Speaker Welcomes EU Delegation to Discuss Electoral Reforms

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The Honourable Deputy Speaker, Seedy SK Njie, welcomed a high-ranking European Union (EU) delegation led by Ambassador-Designate Immaculada Roca I Cortes. The high-level meeting focused on reviewing the progress made on the implementation of the recommendations made by the EU after The Gambia's 2021 elections, particularly as the country looks forward to its next electoral cycle beginning in 2026. 


The EU post-electoral report made 20 recommendations, of which 15 targeted legal reforms to enhance electoral fairness and transparency. The meeting discussed EU concerns regarding transparency measures and access to information within the National Assembly by the general public.


In response, Deputy Speaker Njie highlighted several initiatives, including a dedicated communications unit, committee-led townhall meetings and oversight activities, live-streamed sessions, and open media access to parliamentary proceedings.


The continuity of consultations with civil society organisations and other key stakeholders was also discussed. Deputy Speaker Njie reassured the EU delegation that consultations on the draft constitution will recommence once it is tabled. He acknowledged prior engagements with civil society, political parties, and international partners, emphasising their essential role in shaping the legislative agenda.


He noted that the Elections Bill, addressing critical reform areas, is nearing completion before the National Assembly. He emphasised that both the Elections Bill and a revised draft constitution are legislative priorities, with the draft constitution expected to undergo first and second readings.


In a separate meeting the delegation also met the Select Committee on Regional Government, Lands, Ombudsman and IEC, and The Standing Committee on Human Rights and Constitutional matters, the engagements concluded with a meeting with the Female National Assembly Members of the Gambia.

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