By Binta Jaiteh
The National Assembly Members who came into office in 2017 have commenced their official last session before April parliamentary elections.
Speaking during the opening of the session, house Speaker Maryam Jack Denton, described the Legislative Year as one of the greatest years and a test to our young parliamentarian’s democracy.
“I wish to draw the attention of the members to the standing order clause (48) (6) that after a statement has been said at the assembly questions and answers of the statement will be allowed but in any event questions period shall not last for more than one hour,” she said.
“As we begin the Fifth Ordinary Session in the 2022 Legislature Year, I pray that the Almighty Allah guide us all to treat all matters that may come under our deliberations. As we may be aware this year has brought us to closer to the end of this Legislature Term after years of service to this great nation and the parliament,” she said.
“The term has been a busy one for everyone particularly for the new members who have had much to learn and adapt. Honourable members, at this point I will recognise and appreciate the tremendous work and commitment on your respective oversight committee engagement during the plenary break. This has once again demonstrated your commitment and dedication to the national duty as representative of the people and keeps the momentum as one will find himself in any of nation building. I show gratitude to the National Assembly service for the support and guidance throughout the process.
“However, by way of updating this Assembly the Appropriation Act 2022 that is act number of 2022 which was passed during the previous Ordinary Session of the Assembly has been assented by the President of The Gambia. The following acts which were passed in an extra ordinary session have also been assented by the president The National Health Insurance Bill 2021 passed on the 8th of November and assented 29th. Capital Market and Security act 2021 passed 18 of November assented 30th of December,” she noted.