The Gambian National Assembly’s decision to reject a clause in the election bill that would have granted voting rights to Gambians abroad has sparked widespread criticism. Many in the diaspora see the move as a betrayal, with some activists accusing the government of deliberately blocking their participation due to political concerns.
However, Special Political Adviser Saihou Mballow dismissed these claims, stating that President Adama Barrow had no involvement in the decision. He reassured Gambians abroad that the president supports their right to vote and be elected.
Mballow explained that National Assembly Members (NAMs) from Barrow’s National People’s Party (NPP) have previously voted against government-backed bills without interference from the president. He attributed the rejection to constitutional gaps that need to be addressed before diaspora voting can be properly implemented.
He expressed confidence that the bill could still be reintroduced and passed if clear mechanisms and logistics are established. Mballow also rejected claims that the NPP fears losing power if Gambians abroad are allowed to vote, insisting that many in the diaspora would support Barrow in future elections.
