For the first time, the Assembly formally engaged the media ahead of an Ordinary Session, opening its legislative roadmap to public scrutiny.
From Monday 2nd March to Wednesday 1st April 2026, lawmakers would convene to discharge their constitutional mandates of lawmaking, oversight and representation. Among the most anticipated moments will be the tabling of the Special Select Committee’s findings on how assets identified by the Commission of Inquiry were sold and disposed of.
Describing the report as a milestone in the Assembly’s investigative mandate, the Speaker said it underscores Parliament’s role as the ultimate custodian of the public interest. The report, he stressed, is intended to ensure that the disposal of national assets was conducted with integrity and in accordance with the law.
“The session will also open with an Oral Ministerial Statement by the Minister for Finance and Economic Affairs focusing on the implementation and monitoring of the 2026 Annual Budget. By demanding real-time data on public expenditure early in the fiscal year, the Assembly is positioning itself for proactive financial scrutiny, seeking to ensure that funds it approved are being used efficiently to improve the socio-economic welfare of citizens.”
On the legislative front, he said, several weighty Bills are lined up for debate. These include the National Security Council (Amendment) Bill 2026 aimed at modernising security governance, the GIEPA (Amendment) Bill, the Intellectual Property Bill and the Communications Bill to foster investment and regulate the digital economy.
Lawmakers will also consider the National Climate Change Bill and the Integrated Coastal Zone Management Bill to strengthen climate resilience, as well as the Civil Registration and Vital Statistics Bill to safeguard the integrity of national identity and planning systems.
“Issues of sovereignty and national interest will feature prominently,” he stated. “Motions will explore legal and diplomatic pathways for the restitution of Gambian artefacts removed during the colonial era, ratification of The Gambia’s membership in the Africa Mineral Strategy Group, and affirmation of the country’s standing in international relations, including the One-China Policy.”
In fulfillment of constitutional requirements, he added, the President would deliver the State of the Nation Address on Thursday, 26th March 2026. That address will be followed by what has been described as a structured and robust debate, offering Members the opportunity to assess government policy direction and executive performance.
Clerk of the National Assembly Kalipha NM Mbaye said the session has been carefully planned in strict adherence to Standing Orders, balancing legislative scrutiny, executive oversight and administrative efficiency. Ministers across key sectors are scheduled to appear for oral questions, while formal replies to previous resolutions and committee reports would also be required.
The session will conclude with a Motion on the Adjournment on Wednesday, 1 April 2026.
