Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has criticized the National Assembly’s decision to reject a key provision in the Elections Bill 2021, which would have allowed Gambians in the diaspora to vote.

In a statement issued on March 6, the NHRC expressed disappointment over the move, saying it “effectively disenfranchises a significant segment of Gambian society who continue to make invaluable contributions to the country’s socio-economic development.” According to the Commission, remittances from Gambians abroad accounted for approximately 31.5% of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2024.

The NHRC reminded lawmakers of a Supreme Court ruling on January 27, 2021, which affirmed that Gambians living outside the country have the right to vote under Section 39 of the Constitution. “The Court explicitly affirmed that, pursuant to Section 39 of the Constitution, every Gambian, including those residing outside the country, is entitled to be registered and to vote in elections,” the NHRC stated.

Despite concerns raised by the Minister of Justice about constitutional and logistical challenges, the NHRC argued that the government has had sufficient time to address these issues. “Several countries in the sub-region, including Senegal, Cabo Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, and Niger, have successfully enfranchised their diasporan communities,” the statement noted. “The Gambia also can, with commitment and willingness, enfranchise its citizens in the diaspora.”

The NHRC urged the government and the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) to take immediate action to fulfill their commitment to diaspora voting, calling it a fundamental democratic right. “As a fundamental democratic right, every eligible citizen, irrespective of their geographical location, should have the right and the opportunity to vote and be voted for.”

The Commission further highlighted that The Gambia is a signatory to international human rights agreements that recognize voting as a basic right, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.