Gambian youth have called for empowerment and consideration in the coming constitution saying they were marginalized in the 1997 Constitution.
They also called for the amendment of some sections in the constitution and that other public institutions should be given absolute power to steer their affairs without government interference.
Lamin B Ceesay, chairperson for Kanifing Municipal Youth Committee described the review of the 1997 constitution as a significant to national development, but he said youth didn’t participate in the drafting process of the 1997 constitution.
“There is need for the age limited to be observed in the new constitution. I want the age limit to between thirty to sixty- five years and five year term year to be constitutional,” he said at Nana conference hall.
Modou Lamin Gassama, administrative secretary for Gold Award Holders Association said the executive power should be considered properly, suggesting that the president should be given 100% autonomy power to appoint the cabinet without proper scrutiny.
He said: “Without proper execution of the country’s resources then it would be difficult to develop the nation.”
He added that the government power should be reinforced to ensure they decide effectively without the central government interference, to make sure the area councils operate successfully inclusive the local authorities.
“Public institutions that have greater mandate in delivering development, their powers as well should be enhanced to ensure they are more independent to be able to pursue their policies effectively without any political interference,” he said.
He added the national youth council should be revisited because youth should have 100% control of their institutions and activities, without any form of government interference.
For her part, Isatou Secka, officer from Isatou Foundation suggested for the public to properly look into the matter of citizenship, saying that anyone born in the country should be given citizenship documents.
Author: Sulayman Waan
