By Dawda M. Jallow
The Coalition of Progressive Gambians (CoPG) on Thursday called for the immediate reinstatement of the 2020 draft constitution, urging the government to review and adopt it in the interest of all Gambians.
The call was made during a press briefing held at the Westfield Monument, where the group reaffirmed its commitment to constitutional governance, accountability, and justice.
CoPG Technical Adviser, Mr. Dodou Ndow, said the Coalition’s advocacy is aimed at safeguarding the rights of citizens and strengthening democratic institutions. He stressed that accountability, justice, and constitutional rule remain central to good governance and national development.
Secretary of the Coalition, Mr. Celestine Kujabi, reiterated the group’s resolve to hold public officials accountable, noting that as the country approaches 2026, the need for transparency and good governance remains critical. He said the Coalition has consistently advocated reforms to address corruption and injustice.
Mr. Kujabi highlighted nine key demands which, he said, remain unaddressed and affect the lives of all Gambians. He emphasized CoPG’s insistence on reviving the 2020 draft constitution, describing it as a framework that guarantees independent institutions and effective checks on executive power. He rejected the 2024 draft, arguing that it poses a threat to democratic governance.
He also disclosed that the Coalition is challenging clauses 19, 20, and 21 of the 2023 Amendment Bill before the Supreme Court, citing concerns that the provisions could grant the President powers to pardon individuals implicated in the Janneh Commission.
Addressing youth migration, Mr. Kujabi described irregular migration as a major national loss, noting that young people undertaking the perilous journey represent the country’s future human capital.
Meanwhile, CoPG Media and Communications Coordinator, Mr. Alex Bass, outlined the Coalition’s core demands, stressing that sovereignty resides with the people and not with political parties or temporary parliamentary majorities.
He called for an independent, transparent, and time-bound constitutional reform process, the protection of presidential term limits, and greater transparency in public administration. He also urged the government to publish a clear constitutional reform roadmap, including timelines, milestones, and regular public reporting.
Mr. Bass further called for zero tolerance for corruption, insisting on consequences for public officials who abuse public trust.
The Coalition said it will continue to mobilize peaceful protests, engage stakeholders, and advocate for people-centred reforms aimed at strengthening democracy, accountability, and national security.