By: Isatou Sarr
A political movement has commended Gambia’s Chief Justice, Hassan B. Jallow for what it described as his “principled and timely intervention in national discourse.”
The Patriotic Alliance for System Transformation, Emancipation through Functionalism (PASTEF The Gambia) says Jallow’s intervention on leadership, democratic governance, and constitutional reform is both timely and fitting.
In a statement issued out this week, PASTEF praised the Chief Justice’s recent public reflections, noting that his positions resonate strongly with the country’s founding democratic ideals and the urgent need for pragmatic reforms.
The group said it fully aligns with both the substance and direction of Justice Jallow’s views, particularly his emphasis on institutional integrity, democratic restraint, and consensus-driven constitutional change.
PASTEF highlighted the Chief Justice’s tribute to The Gambia’s first President, Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara, describing it as a powerful reminder of leadership rooted in unity and respect for democratic processes.
According to the group, Jawara’s refusal to manipulate constitutional outcomes including his rejection of a one-party state and his acceptance of the failed 1965 referendum remains a critical lesson for contemporary leaders.
“These historical examples reinforce the principle that nations progress through strong institutions, not strong individuals,” the statement noted.
The organisation also welcomed Justice Jallow’s call for strengthening accountability and oversight institutions, naming the judiciary, National Assembly, National Human Rights Commission, Ombudsman, National Audit Office, and the Anti-Corruption Commission as key pillars of democratic governance.
PASTEF described these bodies as essential for building a functional state capable of resisting abuse of power.
On constitutional reform, PASTEF endorsed the Chief Justice’s proposal for a pragmatic, phased approach, particularly ahead of the 2026 presidential election. The group urged authorities to focus on reforms that enjoy broad national consensus to avoid political deadlock.
Among the priority reforms identified were the introduction of a second-round presidential voting system to enhance electoral legitimacy, the entrenchment of presidential term limits to prevent executive overstay, and the inclusion of diaspora voting in national elections.
“These are achievable reforms that can strengthen our democracy without reopening divisive debates,” the group stated.
PASTEF also echoed Justice Jallow’s caution against excessive reliance on external support and import dependency, linking the issue to economic vulnerability, social pressures, and environmental risks.
It said the Chief Justice’s emphasis on sovereignty, self-reliance, and local innovation aligns closely with its philosophy of national emancipation through functional systems.
The statement concluded by saluting Justice Jallow’s continued commitment to the rule of law and democratic values, describing his voice as a moral and institutional compass at a critical moment in The Gambia’s democratic journey.