The CSO coalition is urging the reinstatement of Clause 14 to allow Gambians abroad to vote, citing constitutional alignment, the risk of disenfranchisement, logistical feasibility, and the importance of democratic principles. Leaders express the need for action before the 2026 presidential elections to protect the voting rights of Gambian citizens living outside the country.
The Civil Society Organisation (CSO) coalition has advocated for the reinstatement of Clause 14 to enable Gambians living abroad to exercise their constitutional right to vote. Marr Nyang, CEO of Gambia Participates (GP), emphasized that this clause is aligned with the 1997 Constitution and supports the voting rights of all Gambians aged 18 and above, as affirmed by the Elections Act of 1996 and a Supreme Court ruling from 2021.
Several key reasons were provided by Mr. Nyang for the restoration of Clause 14. Firstly, it ensures constitutional alignment with Section 39, reaffirming the voting rights of all Gambians, including those residing outside the country. Secondly, abolishing Clause 14 disenfranchises the diaspora, who significantly impact the nation’s economy. Thirdly, the feasibility of diaspora voting has been proven globally without needing separate constituencies. Lastly, excluding these voters undermines democratic principles and human rights.
Mr. Nyang urged both the National Assembly and the government to act before the 2026 presidential election to reinstate Clause 14, emphasizing its importance in respecting the contributions of Gambians abroad. Additionally, Salieu Tall, Chairperson of GP, asserted that Section 88 does not contradict the constitution, validating the retention of Clause 14 and clarifying that registration is based on one’s birthplace, not residency.
Mr. Tall pointed out that while Gambians abroad are currently entitled to vote in presidential elections and referendums, they are disenfranchised from parliamentary, council, or mayoral elections without a separate constituency for the diaspora. He stressed that the diaspora unites political parties and advocates for reform, recalling Coalition 2016, inspired by Solo Sandeng’s commitment to electoral reform.
He concluded by highlighting the contradiction in removing Clause 14, which operationalized established constitutional guarantees, thereby risking the disenfranchisement of Gambians abroad and undermining democracy.
In summary, the CSO coalition has strongly called for the reinstatement of Clause 14 to ensure that Gambians residing abroad can vote, reinforcing their constitutional rights. The coalition’s leaders have provided compelling arguments for reactivation, citing constitutional alignment, the prevention of disenfranchisement, feasibility, and the reaffirmation of democratic principles. The urgency to address this issue is emphasized in light of the approaching 2026 presidential elections, advocating for swift corrective action from the National Assembly and government.
Original Source: thepoint.gm
