The European Union (EU) Election Observer Mission to the Gambia has called for the advancement of political participation rights in the country as part of its recommendations following the 2021 presidential election.
During a press conference held on Thursday, at the Coco Ocean Hotel in Bijilo, Chief of Mission Norbert Neuser reported on the status of the mission’s recommendations.
Although none of the recommendations have been fully implemented, Neuser noted that there are promising legislative proposals on the agenda, such as the Personal Data Protection and Privacy Bill, 2024, which could foster progress if passed and enforced.
Neuser highlighted the importance of transparent and consultative reforms, emphasising that the remaining two years before the next presidential election provide a crucial window for enacting these changes.
He underlined that implementing the mission’s recommendations, especially the seven priority ones, could significantly strengthen the integrity and credibility of the Gambia’s electoral process.
The mission chief also pointed to the potential impact of the Elections Bill, 2022, which remains under consideration.
He described it as an opportunity to reinforce the social contract between Gambian citizens and their leaders, enhancing the framework for future elections.
Neuser further affirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting democratic governance in the Gambia, pledging to collaborate with local stakeholders to advance these electoral and political reforms.
