The National Council for Civic Education (NCCE) and the National Assembly organized the National Constituency Consultative Dialogue on The Gambia’s 2024 Draft Constitution from May 17 to June 1, 2025. The project received support from the EU and UNDP and included about 2,000 Gambians in 20 sessions, focusing on civic participation and feedback.
Key issues raised during these sessions were:
– Citizenship Provisions: There is a need for clearer naturalization pathways for children of non-Gambian parents.
– Leadership and Integrity: People called for more transparency and accountability in governance.
– Right to Marry: Requests were made for clear definitions to reduce confusion.
– Right to Education: A proposal was made to extend free education to senior secondary levels.
– Consumer Protection: Participants advocated for protection against exploitation.
– Independence of the Electoral Commission: It was recommended that the National Assembly confirm presidential appointments to the IEC.
– Presidential Qualifications: A suggestion was made to raise the educational requirements for presidential candidates.
The sessions included active discussions, valuable insights, and comprehensive recommendations to improve the draft constitution.
