The move was part of its ongoing awareness and consultations campaign raising awareness on the said document.
The initiative held on the theme- "A New Constitution for a New Republic: Get Informed, Get Involved", was held in the Upper River Region (URR). It created platform for people in local setting engaged directly with the National Assembly Members (NAMs).
Ansumana Ceesay, programme manager at NCCE, explained that it is crucial for Gambians to understand what is contained in the new draft so that they can be able to participate effectively in the process.
The roundtable dialogue, he added, serves not only as a crucial platform for ensuring that diverse voices are heard, but will also create awareness about constitutional reform process, enabling citizens to participate actively.
He observed that the development of a new constitution for The Gambia is a significant undertaking that requires broad-based participation and inclusivity.
These consultations, he stated, aim to foster inclusive and informed discourse between National Assembly Members (NAMs) and their constituents, while enhancing public awareness and deepening understanding on the proposed constitutional provisions.
Nfamara Sabally, National Assembly Member for Wuli West, said the key takeaway from the speakers was the understanding that no constitution is without flaws.
"Hence citizens were encouraged to approach the process with openness to dialogue and compromise, prioritizing national interests above individual preferences to create a framework that best serves the common good." he added.
Ebrima Jaiteh, member for Sandu outlined the need for active participation by the citizenry in the process.
He reminded that it is essential for the citizens to be well informed about the process of constitutional building.
The similar dialogues were held at Choya, in Central River Region (CRR) and graced by Samba Jallow, National Assembly Member for Niamina Dankunku and Dawda Jeng, NAM for Naimina East.
For the Naimina Dankunku lawmaker the dialogues are a vital platform for direct civic engagement, designed to enhance understanding of the 2024 Draft Constitution,
He noted that it will also help them gather feedback to inform the legislative process, and strengthen the vital connection between NAMs and the people they represent.
Following the democratic change of government in December 2016, he said, the current government embarked on significant reforms, including a legal reform aimed at developing a new constitution that upholds democratic principles, protects human rights, strengthens institutions, and promotes good governance in The Gambia.
He, however, stated that despite the initial setback of the 2020 draft, the government has revived the process with the Gazetting of a controversial revised draft, which will be tabled in parliament soon.
