Presidential adviser Momodou Sabally has criticised the National Assembly for rejecting the 2024 draft constitution, defending President Adama Barrow and his government in the process.

He accused the opposition of acting irresponsibly, saying: “the opposition decided to kill it in the most irresponsible way any political establishment could act. Democracy is about give and take.”

He argued that the draft constitution had not changed since its initial version in 2020 and dismissed claims of it being a new document.

“It’s the same draft that went through the same process. They travelled across the country, held consultations, and spent public funds on a so-called diaspora tour just to collect per diem.”

Mr Sabally defended the executive’s role in the process and supported the amendments made by the cabinet.

“What I will never support is a constitution that limits the president’s powers, strips the executive of its authority, and turns governance into a talk shop,” he said. “I agree with every adjustment made by the cabinet. It’s the best draft The Gambia could have had.”

He insisted that President Barrow had fulfilled his responsibilities by submitting the draft to Parliament.

“If it fails, it’s not President Barrow’s fault. He delivered a constitution to Parliament, and Parliament decided to kill it. That responsibility lies with them,” Mr Sabally added.

By Adama Makasuba