Foni Jarrol NAM blasts per-diems on int’l treaties

The Foni Jarro legislator said: “Most of these international documents do not benefit our people. We are just there taking pictures and receiving per-diems. International treaties are never fair to Africans and we need to look into that,” he stated, while debating on the ratification of the International Labour Organisation Instrument, which was brought to the Parliament by the minister for Justice on behalf of the Minister for Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment on Monday.

Modou Lamin B. Bah, Member for Banjul North challenged the minister to tell them the impact the document would have on Gambians.

Members from different constituencies made their submissions on why the International Labour Organisation Constitution should be amended or not.

Almameh Gibba, Member for Foni Kansala in his submission, said it is important for The Gambia to join organisations like the ILO but questioned the voting methods and what The Gambia would gain as country if it joins the organisation.

Omar Jammeh, Member for Janjangburreh Constituency, described the document as timely looking at the condition of Gambian workers, which he said, is “very sympathetic.”

However, he said: “the ministry should work on how to submit documents to the parliament through proper procedures.”

Musa Cham, Member for Serrekunda Constituency, raised concern about Gambia’s commitment to fulfill its obligation if it joins ILO.

Bakary K. Badjie, Foni Bintang Karanai representative, said members should be given time to look into the document before ratifying it. 

He argued that “in most cases, some of these instruments do not even benefit citizens. Let us go back and consider our Labour Act first before ratifying this document.”

Kemo Gassama, Member for Lower Badibu, said “we are here to represent our people, and as such, whatever we decide must be in their interest.”

The session was adjourned to Thursday 15th September 2022 at 10 a.m.