By Ramatoulie Jawo
Members of the National Youth Parliament, on Monday, urged the National Assembly to consider reintroducing Chapter Five on leadership and integrity into the 2024 Draft Constitution.
This appeal was made at the National Assembly Chambers in Banjul during the opening of the 2024 Ordinary Session of the National Youth Parliament.
Presenting the motion, Jabou Sisawo, the Youth Parliamentarian for Upper Fulladu West, called on every National Assembly member to support the reinstatement of leadership and integrity provisions. She emphasized that this chapter is essential to strengthening the foundations of democracy in The Gambia.
Sisawo highlighted her colleagues’ contributions regarding leadership and integrity in the 2024 Draft Constitution.
“The discussions we have had underscore the critical need for a robust framework that upholds ethical standards and accountability within our public service one of the contributions highlights the importance of considering it as a form of good governance the removal of Chapter 5 from the 2024 Draft Constitution of The Gambia which outlines Leadership and Integrity, raises significant concerns regarding the ethical standards expected of public officers.” She urged the National Assembly in a statement.
She emphasized that leadership and integrity are essential to good governance, stating, “The provisions in the removed chapter were crafted to hold public officers accountable, ensuring they act in the best interest of the citizens and uphold public trust.”
She further highlighted the impact of accountability, explaining that without this provision, public servants may lack accountability in their roles.
“Another point raised by the members is the Impact on Accountability, The absence of these provisions could lead to a lack of accountability among public officials without clear guidelines on ethical behavior there is a risk of corruption and abuse of power which can undermine democratic processes and public confidence in government institutions,”
“Public Perception and Trust, Members raised concerns about how the removal of these clauses may negatively affect public perception of government integrity Citizens expect their leaders to adhere to high ethical standards thus the absence of a framework for integrity could lead to disappointment and disengagement from the political process,” She Said.