Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – Once a former member of The Gambia’s diaspora, Banjul Mayor Rohey Malick Lowe has strongly criticized the National Assembly’s decision to exclude Gambians abroad from participating in the country’s political process, calling it “painful” and a betrayal of those who have consistently supported the nation.

In a passionate statement addressed to lawmakers, Mayor Lowe—who spent over three decades outside The Gambia—urged authorities to recognize the diaspora’s role beyond remittances. “I hate it when people narrow down the importance of the diaspora to remittances,” she stated, emphasizing that Gambians abroad contribute significantly through investments, skills transfer, cultural exchange, and advocacy.

The mayor of Banjul underscored that many in the diaspora actively work to address development challenges in The Gambia, including poverty reduction, improved education, and better healthcare access. Yet, despite their unwavering commitment, they remain politically sidelined.

“It is heartbreaking to witness a modern-day National Assembly turn their backs on the people who are always there for The Gambia when all hope is lost,” she lamented, stressing that excluding the diaspora from political participation affects not only those abroad but the entire nation.

Calling for urgent reforms, Mayor Rohey Malick Lowe urged lawmakers to extend full political rights to Gambians wherever they reside. “It is not enough for the diaspora to keep investing financially in The Gambia. They must be able to participate in our political decisions because this country belongs to us all.”

Mayor Lowe concluded with a call for political will, asserting that if the government truly commits to inclusivity, nothing is impossible to achieve.