The National Assembly is today debating whether to extend the nationwide lockdown put in place to stop the spread of coronavirus 

The government is seeking a 21 days extension of the current lockdown and the Justice minister Abubakarr Tambadou has tabled the motion to the lawmakers. 

Last month the National Assembly ratified a government decree as part of an emergency law ordering a nationwide lockdown for 45 days. The decree will

lapse on Monday of no extension is granted.

The lawmakers are debating the motion seeking for an extension. Opinions differed during Friday’s session as some lawmakers called for extension to the lockdown while others want the government to ease the lockdown given the hardships it is causing to thepoor and vulnerable. 

Meanwhile dozens of lawmakers have  called for tough controls of the country’s borders to stop infections being brought to the country. 

The Gambia has recorded 23 cases with 13 active case, 9 recovered and 1 death.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba