It is essential to identify those who supported and opposed this decision. We must demand a transparent and honest investigation that is free from political bias, propaganda, and the blame game. Only through this approach can we ensure fair representation for all

The recent decision by The Gambia’s National Assembly to reject Diaspora Voting has ignited fervent debate and controversy throughout the nation. This issue is pivotal, as it seeks to empower Gambians living abroad, allowing them to play an active role in shaping the political future of their homeland. 

Given the diaspora’s substantial contributions to The Gambia’s economy through remittances and investments, their participation in the electoral process is not just important—it is essential.

Unfortunately, the media coverage surrounding this critical matter has been tainted by bias, inaccuracies, and political propaganda, misleading the public and exacerbating divisions.

Reports indicate that the National Assembly voted 25 to 14 against the Diaspora Voting initiative. The ruling National People’s Party (NPP), along with its coalition partners and independents, stood against the bill. However, the media failed to provide a detailed breakdown of the voting patterns, leaving key questions unanswered. 

With 58 members in the National Assembly—53 directly elected and five appointed by the President—the landscape is complex. The government side holds 29 seats (NPP 22, NRP 4, APRC 3), while the opposition commands an equal 29 seats (UDP 15, Independents 12, PDOIS 2).

This prompts a critical question: If the opposition consists of 29 members, why did only 14 vote in favour of the bill? What happened to the remaining opposition members? Did they choose to abstain, vote against it, or were they simply absent? These vital details should have been brought to light by journalists and activists striving for fairness and accuracy in their reporting.

One example of flawed reporting comes from National Assembly member Madi Ceesay, a UDP representative and former journalist, who initially shared the news on Facebook. His account, which was widely circulated by online media, exhibited clear bias, aimed at misleading the public regarding the murky voting dynamics. 

It is disheartening that those who claim to support activism and truth have not provided a complete picture. Instead, attention has been focused on vilifying the ruling party and its allies, while the role of the opposition has been overlooked. Such selective reporting not only distorts the truth but also undermines the credibility of the media and activists involved.

The ongoing politicisation of vital national issues, like Diaspora Voting, is a disservice to The Gambia. It diverts attention from the critical discussions necessary to confront the challenges our nation faces. 

Diaspora voting transcends politics; it embodies a matter of constitutional and democratic rights. Gambians living abroad have long been denied their fundamental right to vote, despite their significant contributions to national development. This disenfranchisement must be rectified, but it will require honest and fruitful dialogue, not divisive rhetoric and blame-shifting.

Moving forward, we must insist on accountability and transparency from all parties involved. Journalists and media institutions must adhere to the highest standards of accurate and impartial reporting. 

Politicians, regardless of their party affiliation, need to prioritise the national interest over their partisan agendas. The public, too, must engage critically with the information they consume and hold their leaders accountable.

While the vote against Diaspora Voting is undoubtedly a setback, it should not mark the conclusion of this vital conversation. Rather, it presents an opportunity to reflect on the shortcomings of our political and media spheres and to work collectively towards a more inclusive and democratic Gambia. 

Let us focus on the facts, engage in meaningful dialogue, and strive for a future where every Gambian, regardless of their location, possesses a voice in the affairs of their nation.

Alagi Yorro Jallow is a veteran Gambian journalist and political commentator residing in the United States.