Since transitioning from Yahya Jammeh’s rule in 2016, The Gambia has made democratic progress, such as in terms of credible elections, but governance challenges remain. The rejection of the 2020 Draft Constitution, which aimed to introduce presidential term limits and strengthen checks on executive power, was a major democracy setback. In 2024, a new draft constitution was introduced, retaining a two-term presidential limit but omitting retroactive application, potentially allowing the current president to serve beyond the two-term limit. Additionally, concerns from civil society have emerged about limited public consultation and an executive-driven process, making the draft less inclusive than its 2020 counterpart. The success of this reform process will be crucial in shaping The Gambia’s democratic future.
Some notable developments in the last year include in July 2024, when the National Assembly upheld the 2015 ban on Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), rejecting a repeal bill – a decision praised by human rights organisations as a victory for women’s rights. In December 2024, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) approved the establishment of a special court to prosecute crimes committed during Yahya Jammeh’s dictatorship, marking a significant step toward justice and accountability for past atrocities.
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Gambia Participates
