The Coalition of Progressive Gambians, an established non-profit organisation registered in Gambia, has been actively involved in reaching out to MPs and the Ministry of Justice on the rejected draft constitution. According to Mr. Ebrima Dibba, they have been garnering public support from National Assembly members and have been conducting interviews with various radio stations across the country.
The Coalition of Progressive Gambians, in a letter penned by their secretary general and directed to the Justice Ministry, expresses their profound apprehension regarding the rejection of the 2020 Draft Constitution. They urge the ministry to reassess their stance and reintroduce the draft for deliberation, referencing the recent correspondence sent to National Assembly Members.

As concerned citizens, we urge you to reverse your choices and reinstate the 2020 Draft Constitution in its original form, allowing it to proceed to a referendum, in accordance with the will of the population.
The 2020 draft constitution includes clauses that establish the appointment of independent institutions such as the Auditor General, Inspector General of Police, Office of the Ombudsman, Anti-Corruption Commission, Independent Electoral Commission, and National Human Rights Commission. These appointments are made by the President with the approval of the National Assembly. Additionally, the draft constitution specifies that the Speaker is elected by members of the National Assembly from outside the Assembly, following the Assembly’s standing orders. These provisions significantly strengthen the functions of these institutions in carrying out their defined roles and responsibilities impartially. Essentially, the laws grant authority to the legislators in carrying out their duties and strengthen the principles of the Separation of Powers.

Given the significant financial and temporal investment made in the creation of this crucial national document, we implore the government to honour the will of the people by reinstating the much anticipated 2020 Draft Constitution and subjecting it to a direct popular vote.

We consider the draft constitution to be a crucial instrument in overhauling the long-standing system. This will guarantee the government’s credibility, respect, and confidence among the citizens. The performance of your tasks as an independent arm of government in the successful administration of the separation of powers should prioritise the national interest. It is important to remember that the interests of the nation should always take priority over the interests of political parties and individuals. This principle should never be compromised, as it weakens the ability to manage effectively and in the best interest of the country.

As the legal adviser to the government, we expect you to take the appropriate steps to present the 2020 Draft Constitution, in its original version, to the National Assembly for review. Rest assured that the Coalition of Progressive Gambians would employ all lawful and essential actions or demonstrations in response to any modifications aimed at altering a provision or entrenched clause prior to a referendum.

The group expressed their approval of the response from the Justice Ministry, which was received on February 13, 2024. The response acknowledged and replied to a letter sent by the Coalition of Progressive Gambians (CoPG) to the Ministry. The letter from CoPG requested the reintroduction of the 2020 Draft Constitution. The group commended the Minister of Justice and Solicitor General for their efforts in addressing this matter. This action represents progress and a stride towards fostering trust and assurance in the judiciary.

The CoPG wishes to request the Solicitor General and Legal Adviser to prioritise the common interests and welfare of the Gambian people, disregarding any complications caused by the interests of individuals, groups, or parties. We strongly advise the contending parties to refrain from altering the significant entrenched elements, as these laws are based on reputable principles that constitute a progressive democratic society.

The CoPG also urges the Constitutional and Human Rights Affairs Committees of the National Assembly to make every effort to ensure that the 2020 Draft Constitution is reintroduced in its original form. We rely on the assistance of the pertinent institutions and stakeholders in this undertaking.

Ebrima Dibba stated during a telephone conversation with Freedom Newspaper that their effort will persist until the Draft Constitution is reinstated. He also applauded the Ministry of Justice for replying to them in response to a letter sent by CoPG