Earlier on in the month of January 2024, the members embarked on a similar tour in LRR [Lower River Region] where they had interacted with Gambian citizens on National matters.
“This tour is not a partisan tour as it is an important opportunity for citizens and their elected officials to connect, interact and share ideas,” a statement by UDP National Assembly Members indicated.
During the tour, members would explain to the Gambians the legislative process and how laws are made, which would help citizens understand how their government works and how they can have a say in the laws that affect them, said the tour coordinator Hon. Yahya Sanyang.
The tour also provides an opportunity where citizens can share their concerns and priorities with their Assembly members, he added, saying: “This will help the Assembly members better represent the needs of their constituents.”
Building trust is key between elected members and the people they represent, the UDP statement said:“By meeting face-to-face, citizens and Assembly members can build trust and rapport. This can lead to stronger relationships between the members and the people they serve.”
Increase Transparency:
According to the tour coordinator Hon. Sanyang, “The tour will help to increase transparency in National Assembly matters. By seeing their Assembly members at work, citizens can feel more confident that their representatives are accountable to them.
“Finally, this is a valuable opportunity for both citizens and Assembly members. The participation by both members and Gambian citizens in the tour can help to strengthen Gambia's democracy.”
