In public opposition to the 2024 Draft Constitution, four members of the Independent National Assembly who represent Foni area constituencies have rejected the document’s advancement through the legislature’s second reading. The legislators, who were speaking on behalf of Foni Kansala, Foni Bintang, Foni Bondali, and Foni Jarrol, contended that the draft does not adequately represent the desires and goals of the Gambian people, especially those who live in Foni.
Hon. Pa Dembo Bojang, the member for Foni Bondali, stated that his position was based on input from his constituents. “During our consultation, my people advised us to discard the 2024 draft constitution,” he stated. “I will also be able to reject the draft constitution for 2024.”
Foni Kansala’s Independent Member, Hon. Almameh Gibba, also expressed strong criticism, stating that the proposal does not reflect the desires of the people he represents.
No one will come and crucify us or introduce something that is not in line with the desires and aspirations of the people, especially the people of Foni, but we do believe in the idea that the constitution is not flawless, Honorable Speaker. They have convinced me that Kansala is against this and does not want it to be seen. “Honorable Gibba, you are representing Kansala; this draft must be buried 40 feet deep in this chamber,” they told me once more.
The 2020 proposal, which was finally rejected by the National Assembly, cost over D100 million, he added, criticizing the expense on the previous constitutional process. Gibba contends that these funds would have been better used to build out the Ndemban Clinic and nearby schools, among other healthcare and educational facilities.
Similar remarks were made by Hon. Bakary K. Badjie, an Independent National Assembly member from Foni Bintang, who cautioned that the latest draft is likely to suffer the same fate as its predecessor. He said, “We have no obligation to appease the NPP.” The burying of the 2024 draft constitution is what we are going to see. Because we are frequently overwhelmed by the majority during the consideration stage, we are not permitting it to pass the second reading. What is the guarantee that we will have them? We’re not prepared to bury it, never.
They would be remembered for their opposition as a historic stand for their nation, he continued. Foni Jarrol’s Hon. Kebba Toumanding Sanneh also disapproved of the measure. According to what people say in Foni, the 2024 Draft Constitution is completely rejected and ought to be buried.
