Despite a series of advocacy in the country surrounding women and youth participation in decision-making processes, the trend still persists in some quotas.
Most youth these days seem to be more focused on travelling to the West by hook or crook. This is making efforts futile in a broader move to engage them in constructive dialogue especially relating to constitutional matters.
Youth should reason that every citizen, regardless of his or her political or social affiliation, recognizes their fundamental role in defending the constitutional framework of ‘our Republic.
And any venture to ensure that is fulfiled by creating more awareness on promoting civic rights is a welcome initiative.
The Youths in Defence of the Law (YDL), a non-partisan civic movement committed to defending, upholding, and promoting the supremacy of The Gambia’s Constitution has embarked on a nationwide campaign to deepen civic consciousness and expand regional outreach across all sectors of society. This exercise is not only timely, but a venture worthy emulating.
The Gambia will head to the polls in 2026 to elect president. In build up to the event, it is important to create more awareness on the constitutional rights of citizens.
Unarguably, sustainable development and inclusive governance can only be achieved when citizens especially young people are empowered especially in constitutional issues.
In view of the fact that women and youth constitute majority of Gambian voters, their active participation in decision-making processes is not only crucial, but sine qua non to development.
We want to commend the youth-led NGO for conceiving such an important initiative. Their action demonstrates not only their action-oriented move, but dedication in defending and promoting the Constitution not just in words, but through lawful activism.
A lot more works need to be done in build up to the 2025 general election in terms of raising awareness on civic rights. And the fact, as a youth led organization, they stand a better chance to motivate their peers in their ghettos for a more constructive dialogue.
We implore on all to open their doors to this team as they embark on this laudable nationwide exercise. Remember that the more are united, the more achieve greater things.
Thus, let stay united and in defence of the sacred legal document that binds us as one nation. In unity, we preserve our peace.