Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The National Assembly on Wednesday adjourned sine die, marking the close of the Fourth Ordinary Session (Budget Session) after nearly seven weeks of intensive legislative activity, highlighted by budget scrutiny, ministerial accountability, and key governance decisions.
Moving the Motion for Adjournment, the Majority Leader noted that the Assembly convened from October 31 to December 17, 2025, in accordance with Section 98(1)(b) of the 1997 Constitution and relevant Standing Orders.
He confirmed that Records of Votes and Proceedings were adopted for all sittings, as required.
The session was marked by robust oversight, with Ministers responding to Oral Questions under Standing Order 41. The Vice President and 17 Cabinet Ministers appeared before lawmakers, covering key portfolios including Finance, Justice, Health, Interior, Environment, Communications, Energy, Defense, Agriculture, Foreign Affairs, and Youth and Sports.
Several ministers also submitted formal responses to parliamentary committee reports in compliance with Standing Order 100.
These included updates on the 2020 audited accounts, oversight of sporting and cultural facilities, a petition from Gambia Tourism Board staff, transhumance activities, foreign mission oversight, and the performance of state-owned enterprises.
A central focus of the session was the consideration of the 2026 Estimates of Revenue and Expenditure, which culminated in the passage of the Appropriation Bill, 2026.
Lawmakers also approved the appointment of the Chairperson and Commissioners of the Anti-Corruption Commission, ratified the Samoa Agreement, and extended the mandate of the Special Select Committee investigating assets linked to former President Yahya A.J.J. Jammeh.
Several bills were reviewed and passed during the session, including the National Climate Change Bill, 2025; Communications Bill, 2025; National Food Security Corporation Bill, 2025; Cybercrime Bill, 2023; and the Early Warning and Response Mechanism and National Population Bills for 2024 and 2025.
Reflecting on the legislative year, the majority leader described the workload as demanding but commended members for fulfilling their constitutional mandate.
He highlighted the Janneh Commission assets probe and the confirmation of the Anti-Corruption Commission leadership as major milestones in advancing accountability.
As the country approaches an election year, political leaders are urged to exercise restraint and responsibility in public engagements. The Majority Leader also reassured citizens that economic and governance concerns raised during the session remain under the Assembly’s ongoing consideration.
The session concluded with expressions of appreciation for the Speaker, Deputy Speaker, and National Assembly staff, as the Assembly formally adjourned sine die.
