Themed: ‘A New Constitution for a New Republic: Get Informed, Get Involved’, this initiative was commenced in the Upper River Region (URR) to Central River Region (CRR North and South), Lower River Region and North Bank Region.
The initiative facilitates direct engagement between National Assembly Members (NAMs) and their constituents.
The initiative was spearheaded by National Council for Civic Education (NCCE) and partners such as UNDP and EU Delegation. It’s part of the NCCE’s ongoing awareness and consultations campaign on the draft constitution.
Ansumana Yabou, the senior programme officer, NCCE, emphasised that the initiative aims to engage citizens in the conversation about adopting a new constitution, allowing them to express their opinions and provide feedback.
During their meeting at Willingaraba in Jarra East, Lower River Region, local residents such as Wandifa Fatty, Haddy Beyai, Kebba Kanyi, Omar Bah and others expressed that 10 years for presidential term limit was too small for a president to do his work. They therefore suggested for 20 years instead.
Kebba Jallow, the NAM for Jarra Central explained the reason for rejecting the 2020 draft constitution, saying there were clauses and provisions in that constitution which were not clear.
During a meeting in Farafenni, North Bank Region, both participants and NCEC expressed optimism that such interactions will improve citizens’ involvement in the country’s decision-making processes.
The discussions primarily focused on topics such as citizenship, leadership, rights, and responsibilities, among others.
The initiative seeks to enhance citizens' understanding of the 2024 draft, enabling them to make informed choices.
