A coalition of civil society organizations demands the reinstatement of Diaspora voting, vital for Gambians abroad to exercise their constitutional voting rights. They emphasize the alignment with constitutional provisions, the risk of disenfranchisement, and the feasibility of Diaspora voting. Leaders call on timely action from the National Assembly and government ahead of the 2026 elections to uphold democracy.
A coalition of civil society organizations (CSO) advocates for the reinstatement of Diaspora voting, emphasizing the necessity for Gambians abroad to participate in elections. Marr Nyang, the CEO of Gambia Participates (GP), spoke with journalists regarding this issue, highlighting that the right to vote is constitutionally guaranteed for all Gambians aged 18 and above. This right, he added, is supported by the Elections Act of 1996 and upheld by a 2021 Supreme Court decision.
Nyang outlined several reasons for restoring Clause 14, which allows for Diaspora voting: First, it aligns with Section 39 of the Constitution and the Supreme Court ruling that affirms the voting rights of all Gambians, including those living abroad. Secondly, removing Clause 14 disenfranchises many Gambians abroad, who significantly contribute to the nation’s economy, establishing an alarming precedent. Additionally, he stated that Diaspora voting is feasible logistically and legally, as demonstrated by practices in other countries, without necessitating separate constituencies.
Mr. Nyang stressed that denying voting access to Gambians abroad undermines the principles of democracy and human rights. He urged both the National Assembly and government to act expeditiously ahead of the 2026 presidential elections to ensure the rights of Gambians abroad are not violated.
Salieu Tall, chairperson of GP, reiterated that Section 88, which some National Assembly Members (NAMs) reference, does not invalidate Clause 14 but rather supports its framework. He elucidated that registration is dependent on birth or residence location rather than where an individual is currently living, allowing for a Gambian registered in Banjul North, however temporarily abroad, to remain a constituent.
Tall noted that while Diasporans can vote in presidential elections and referendums, they are excluded from participating in parliamentary and local elections without a designated constituency. He emphasized the importance of the Diaspora in fostering unity among Gambian political factions and contributing to the end of dictatorship, citing the formation of Coalition 2016, spurred by Solo Sandeng’s campaign for electoral reform.
Furthermore, Tall argued that despite existing constitutional provisions and Supreme Court rulings supporting Diaspora voting, the removal of Clause 14 from the 2021 Elections Bill poses a significant threat to the voting rights of Gambians living abroad. This action not only disenfranchises them but also compromises the integrity of the democratic process in Gambia.
In conclusion, the coalition of civil society organizations is vigorously advocating for the reinstatement of Clause 14, which allows Gambians living abroad to exercise their voting rights. Emphasizing the importance of this clause for aligning with constitutional mandates, preventing disenfranchisement, and maintaining democratic integrity, they call on the government and Assembly to act promptly. Failure to address this matter risks undermining Gambians’ rights and democratic values.
Original Source: thepoint.gm
