By Adama Makasuba
The Gambia’s lawmakers recently approved a code of conduct aimed at holding members accountable for their actions in Parliament and promoting good governance.
This code sets out clear guidelines for the conduct expected of National Assembly Members (NAMs) and outlines the expected standards of behavior for everyone working within the parliamentary environment. The goal is to promote ethical conduct and enhance public trust in Parliament and its members.
Alagie S. Darboe, the vice chairman of the Privileges and Ethics Committee, who presented the Act to Parliament, emphasized that the code serves as an institutional measure to promote professional standards in Parliament. He expressed that the code would help ensure that members are accountable for their responsibilities and will contribute to the effective functioning and integrity of the Parliament. Furthermore, he highlighted that it promotes transparency and accountability, thereby fostering public confidence in the work of Members of Parliament.
Upon the presentation of the new Act, members of Parliament warmly welcomed the code of conduct, acknowledging its pivotal role in upholding and promoting the principles of democracy.