Nominated Member of the National Assembly Fatoumatta K. Jawara has condemned the recent vandalism of the National People’s Party (NPP) Political Bureau, urging Gambians to respect the law and pursue grievances through peaceful and democratic means.
Jawara made the remarks during a debate on the country’s ongoing electricity crisis under the “Matter of the Day” at the National Assembly, where she also criticised National Assembly Members (NAMs) who participated in recent youth-led street demonstrations.
Reflecting on Gambia’s political history, Jawara called on citizens to consider the country’s democratic progress and maintain patience as the government works to address the power crisis.
“I think we should recall where The Gambia came from and where we are today. The older democracy was found in The Gambia under Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara; this was butchered and trashed out, and it was restored by this current dispensation,” she said.
She acknowledged the difficulties caused by the persistent electricity disruptions but argued that maintaining peace and stability should remain a priority.
“As far as we are living peacefully, let us have patience. Everything will be restored back,” Jawara said.
The nominated member expressed particular concern over the vandalism of the NPP Political Bureau, stressing that political differences should not justify attacks on property or institutions.
“One can protest based on the confinement of the law, but you shouldn’t vandalize government institutions if you are fighting for a genuine cause,” she said.
Jawara also questioned the decision by some parliamentarians to join protesters in the streets, arguing that lawmakers have a constitutional responsibility to represent citizens and address national concerns from within the National Assembly.
“I saw some parliamentarians who joined the protest. These people have the voice to speak for the voiceless in this chamber here and to contribute to the solution, but they preferred to join the protesters in the streets thinking that will give them something tangible,” she said.
She called for greater patriotism and constructive engagement in finding solutions to the electricity crisis.
“Let us find a solution to this problem. It is better if we are patriotic,” Jawara added.
The lawmaker further warned that confrontations involving protesters, parliamentarians and security personnel could undermine national stability, particularly given Gambia’s difficult political past.
“Joining the protesters and having issues with the security personnel is not helpful. This country went through a lot and we are still healing. The government has contributed a lot and tried a lot,” she stressed.
