By: Kemo Kanyi
The Public Relations Officer for Coalition of Progressive Gambians (CoPG), Lamin Bojang, has entreated legislators to reject the 2024 draft constitution, saying the document is not a true representation of the hopes and aspirations of citizens.
Mr. Bojang accused the Barrow government of attempting to impose a constitution on Gambians that will entrench self-perpetuating rule in The Gambia, adding that the endorsement of the 2024 draft will mark the beginning of the end of transparency in the running of public affairs.
“The government that fought with us to unseat a self-perpetuating rule has now taken a twist against us in trying to impose a constitution that seeks to protect their unscrupulous activities while in power. The NAMs should not allow it to pass,’’ Bojang charged.
He explained that the most important document of a country is its constitution as he accused President Barrow of trying to concentrate power into his hands and arrogating to himself theimmunity from prosecution after leaving the stage, regardless of what he might possibly commit during his tenure.
“The 2024 draft dictates that they [the executive] can declare their assets before handling public office, but they are protected from revealing what they acquired after leaving the public office. We are all aware of the damning reports from the National Audit Office about the mismanagement of public funds by public servants. The same draft mandated the National Assembly Members to declare their assets before and after leaving office. So, is that fair?” stated Bojang.
He asserted that Gambians will stand firm to ensure that the2020 draft is re-introduced to the Parliament for consideration, adding that citizens will equally stand firm against the 2024 draft because “it does not represent the interest of the nation”.
