By Nyima Sillah
Madi Ceesay, the Chairperson for the National Assembly Select Committee on Human Rights and Constitutional Matters, has stated that the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) holds the power and mandate to demarcate the diaspora into a constituency.
“The IEC is the only legal body entrusted with the authority to carry out constituency demarcation. Given the power granted to them by the constitution, I see no reason why the IEC cannot demarcate and add one or two constituencies from the diaspora,” he asserted.
He further cited Section 11 of the Election Act, which mandates the IEC to register citizens abroad, affirming that the legal framework is already in place to ensure that Gambians in the diaspora are able to vote.
Hon. Ceesay pointed out that the IEC has a long history of demarcating constituencies in The Gambia. For instance, the National Assembly once had 48 seats, but the IEC increased the number to 53, relying on the constitution and the Election Act.
“They can rely on the same law and Act to expand and include the diaspora as a constituency. Nothing prevents them from doing this. The legal framework is already in place; it’s now up to them to take the necessary steps, whether or not Section 14 is removed. There are still other legal provisions that support this,” Hon. Ceesay stated during an interview with The Voice.
The human rights chair also emphasized that the sections in the constitution and the Election Act alone are sufficient for the IEC to take the necessary steps to include the diaspora in the voting process.
“That’s why Clause 14 was initially included in the Election Bill. Unfortunately, this clause was expunged by the NPP and their allies, which is unfortunate and unconstitutional. If this matter is brought before the Supreme Court, I fear the National Assembly will face further humiliation,” he warned.
Hon. Ceesay also expressed disappointment in the actions of some National Assembly members, urging them to avoid decisions that would bring shame and distrust to the institution. “If such rulings continue against the decisions of the National Assembly, it will lead to a loss of credibility with the electorate. This is one of the most disappointing actions by members of the National Assembly,” he emphasized.
