Rédaction Africa Links 24 with babucarr balajo
Published on 2024-03-01 09:39:00
A new report has been released urging the government of The Gambia to redistrict electoral boundaries in order to achieve fairer political representation. This report, authored by academics and political scientists Dave Manneh and Essa Njie of the Centre for Research and Policy Development (CRPD), highlights the need for a more equitable distribution of constituencies based on the number of registered voters.
Currently, the report points out that the Brikama administrative area, with 12 constituencies and 359,451 registered voters, should be increased to 20 constituencies to better serve the population. Conversely, the report recommends that Foñi, with five constituencies and 39,711 voters, should be reverted to just two constituencies by merging the existing ones.
In Banjul, where there are three constituencies and 21,372 registered voters, the report suggests merging them into a single constituency to align with an average of 17,817 voters per constituency. The Kanifing municipality, with seven constituencies, is advised to increase to ten to provide more balanced representation. Additionally, the Latrikunda Sabiji constituency, with 36,851 voters, should be split into two constituencies to ensure fair representation.
The report also addresses disparities in voter populations in Serekunda, Bakau, Kombo South, Busumbala, Sannehmentereng, and Old Yundum constituencies. It recommends dividing these areas into more constituencies to accommodate the growing population. Furthermore, the report suggests merging some constituencies in the Kerewan administrative area to meet the average number of voters per constituency.
For Mansa Konko, the report proposes reducing the number of constituencies from six to three by merging certain areas. Similarly, in Janjangbureh, the report recommends reducing the current eleven constituencies to seven by merging areas with lower voter populations. Basse administrative area, with 118,210 registered voters, is suggested to maintain its seven constituencies to align with the hypothetical mean of 17,817 voters per constituency.
Overall, the report emphasizes the importance of fair political representation in strengthening democracy, particularly in the legislative branch of government. It calls for a review of electoral boundaries to address the current disparities and ensure equitable representation for all citizens. Additionally, the report suggests considering the creation of constituencies for diaspora Gambians to extend the franchise to those outside the country.
In conclusion, the authors stress the need for collaboration between the executive, parliament, and the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) to enact the necessary electoral reforms for a more inclusive and fair electoral system in The Gambia. By implementing these recommendations, the government can enhance democratic governance and better serve the diverse population of the country.
Read the original article on The Standard
