By: Binta Jaiteh
The Vice President Muhammed Jallow Friday launched National Assembly five year strategic plan geared towards improving parliamentary oversight, and ensuring robust scrutiny of government actions.
The five-year roadmap supported by the European Union and International IDEA further aims to strengthen legislative effectiveness, enhance transparency, and deepen public engagement in the democratic process.
Speaking at Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara Conference Centre, Jallow stated that the theme chosen for the launch: “Enhancing Parliamentary Performance, Strengthening Democratic Institutions and Inclusive Citizen Engagement,” resonates deeply with national aspirations and the core tenets of the New Gambia they are collectively striving to build.
“This strategic plan is more than just a document it is a bold declaration of intent, a roadmap towards a more effective responsive and people-centred National Assembly,” he said. “A nation’s progress is intrinsically linked to the vibrancy and efficacy of its Parliament. This Strategic Plan lays a crucial foundation for bolstering the core functions of our National Assembly, robust law-making, diligent oversight of the executive and authentic representation of the Gambian people.”
He underscored government’s commitment towards supporting initiatives that strengthen research capabilities, improve legislative drafting, and ensure that parliamentary committees are well-resourced to scrutinise government policies and expenditures effectively.
The Speaker of parliament, Fabakary Tombong Jatta for his part disclosed that the strategic plan was their pledge to amplify that voice, to work tirelessly on behalf of Gambians and to be accountable for the trust that citizens have placed in them.
“Parliament is the bedrock of a nation’s democracy. It is where the diverse voices of our citizenry converge, where laws that shape our society are crafted, and where the executive is held accountable,” Hon. Jatta noted.
He thanked the development partners particularly the European Union and International IDEA for their continuous partnership and support.
“We look forward to continuing our fruitful collaborations as we implement the initiatives outlined in this plan, working together to strengthen democratic governance in the Gambia.”
Other speakers included clerk of the National Assembly Kalifa Mbye who said that strong parliament required a robust and efficient parliamentary service
