Hamat N.K. Bah, leader of the National Reconciliation Party (NRP), is urging for a complete overhaul of The Gambia’s electoral system. Speaking at his party’s biennial congress on Saturday night in Brikamaba, he stressed the need for a proportional voting system—one he believes would ensure fairer representation for all Gambians, including those in the diaspora and minority groups.
“Our current voting system falls short, especially when it comes to including Gambians abroad,” Bah said. “If we want true inclusion, we must rethink how we conduct our elections.”
The congress, themed “Consolidation of Party Democracy and Inclusive Politics,” drew government ministers, governors, and representatives from other political parties.
Bah, who also serves as the Minister of Lands and Local Government, argued that diaspora voting can’t be discussed in isolation. “We must also consider minority religious communities within the country,” he said. “This is about ensuring every voice counts.”
He advocated for a proportional voting system—one where every vote contributes to representation, and political party lists are inclusive of women and other marginalized groups.
Highlighting the realities of Gambians abroad, Bah pointed out, “There are more Gambians living in places like Cassamance, Senegal, and Mauritania than in Europe. These people deserve a say in our democracy too.”
He criticized the focus on diaspora voting from Western countries alone, emphasizing that many Gambians outside the country left due to economic hardship, not privilege. “We must include all Gambians in the process, no matter where they’ve migrated to,” he insisted.
Bah called on lawmakers and political leaders to stop shifting blame when it comes to diaspora voting and instead work together to modernize the electoral system. “We will partner with the coalition government and National Assembly to introduce laws that protect women and make our electoral system more inclusive,” he said.
He also reaffirmed his belief in The Gambia’s democratic journey: “This country will never return to dictatorship or military rule. No amount of unrest will take us backward.”
In a message to the country’s youth, Bah urged them to acquire skills and prepare for leadership. “You are tomorrow’s leaders. Without preparation, taking on that responsibility will be very difficult,” he warned.
