New Governance Centre Launched to Boost Democracy and Accountability

By Cecilia E. L. Mendy

A new civil society organisation dedicated to strengthening democratic governance has been launched in The Gambia. The Centre for Good Governance (CGG), founded by governance advocate Alasan Sowe, was formally unveiled on 5 December 2025 at Bakadaji Hotel, attracting civil society leaders, youth activists, and democracy defenders.

Sowe said the organisation was established in response to governance tensions, structural violence inherited from past authoritarian rule, and the continuing development challenges confronting ordinary Gambians. CGG’s mission, he noted, is to promote accountable leadership, ethical public service, and active citizen participation.

Outlining the centre’s strategic direction, Sowe said its work will centre on what he termed the “three Gs”—decentralisation, democratisation, and development—key pillars he believes are essential for building people-centred governance. He cited the 1997 Constitution’s commitments to the rule of law, multiparty democracy, and human rights as guiding principles for the organisation’s work.

CGG also aims to empower women, youth, and marginalised communities, including persons with disabilities. Sowe raised concerns about barriers faced by persons with disabilities during elections and urged the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) to ensure ramps and disability-friendly polling stations are available nationwide. He also called on the Medical and Dental Council to ensure medication labels include braille for visually impaired citizens.

Marr Nyang, founder of Gambia Participate, commended Sowe for establishing an organisation with a “clear and necessary” mandate, noting that civil society plays a vital role in holding government accountable and scrutinising public policy.

Lala Touray, Deputy Executive Director of the National Youth Service Scheme, encouraged young people to take up leadership roles and engage actively in national governance. Meaningful change, she said, requires collective effort and mentorship across the country.

Also addressing the gathering, Madi Jobarteh, Executive Director of the Edward Francis Small Centre for Rights and Justice, said the launch comes at a critical moment as the country continues to confront weak institutions, a fragile civic culture, and social injustice. He urged Gambians to prioritise service, justice, and accountability.

CGG says it plans to work with communities across all regions to deepen civic awareness, strengthen public participation, and advance transparency in governance.

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 By Cecilia E. L. Mendy A new civil society organisation dedicated to strengthening democratic governance has been launched in The…
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