Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL) – In a statement sanctioning the Abuja summit on Saturday, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) called on The Gambia’s government and relevant stakeholders to accelerate the adoption of the new constitution. This appeal is part of ongoing efforts by ECOWAS to encourage consensus on the draft constitution, paving the way for a referendum where Gambians can decide its fate.

This is not the first time ECOWAS has emphasized the urgency of this process. Back in December 2023, the organization urged the Gambian government to expedite the adoption of the new constitution ahead of the 2026 general elections. They also pushed for the implementation of the recommendations from the Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparations Commission (TRRC).

The urgency was further heightened when President Adama Barrow’s cabinet, following accusations of orchestrating the draft constitution’s defeat at the National Assembly, directed the Minister of Justice to form a working group aimed at building consensus on the draft.

Despite ECOWAS’s involvement in facilitating discussions among Gambian political actors, the draft constitution faced a setback when it was rejected by the parliament. This has led to increased pressure from ECOWAS to bring the draft back for consideration as the organization considers the document to be the basis for further reforms to better the lives of Gambians.

During the ECOWAS leaders’ meeting in Abuja on July 7th, 2024, President Barrow briefed his counterparts on The Gambia’s transitional agenda, emphasizing the urgent need to implement the TRRC recommendations. He highlighted the prolonged wait of victims for justice and appealed for support in the process.

It should be noted that in his annual State of the Nation address, President Adama Barrow assured the citizens of The Gambia that a referendum on the draft Constitution will be held in December. This crucial referendum will allow Gambians to voice their opinions on proposed constitutional changes, including the introduction of presidential term limits.

President Barrow emphasized the significance of this referendum in shaping the future of The Gambia and ensuring that the voices of the people are heard.

Meanwhile, the Abuja summit underscored The Gambia’s responsibility to expedite the constitution’s adoption, reflecting the organization’s impatience with the slow pace of The Gambia’s transitional justice program.

As a matter of comparison with The Gambia, ECOWAS also addressed other regional concerns and specifically urged Guinea-Bissau to swiftly announce a date for legislative elections, leading to President Umaro Sissoco Embaló setting November 24 as the election date. This decision comes in the wake of a failed coup d’état and the subsequent dissolution of parliament.

Additionally, ECOWAS expressed concern over the recurring issue of non-payment of community levies by member states, which hampers the performance of community institutions and programs. The organization urged member states to fulfill their financial obligations promptly.

The renewed call to The Gambia highlights ECOWAS’s commitment to ensuring stability and democratic progress in the region, despite the challenges and delays faced by member states.