Hon. Bakary Badjie expressed strong disappointment following the adjournment of the National Assembly without debate, criticizing the majority for blocking discussions on pressing national issues.
“You see, a session lasts for two or three months, and we have four sessions in a year. Among these sessions, adjournment debate is the only time members can raise concerns on behalf of their constituencies and the nation,” Badjie said. “Adjourn without debate implies that there are no issues in the country, that we are satisfied with the current state of affairs. But we are not.”
Badjie highlighted several issues he believes require parliamentary attention, including the recent removal of the Auditor General, which he described as unlawful and unconstitutional. He also referenced the Pura protests and the arrest of demonstrators, along with the recent killing of Omar Badgie, which has heightened national tensions.
“These are matters we should address. Our mandate is to express frustration over such issues,” he said. “The depreciation of our currency is another critical concern. If our currency loses value, we risk national collapse.”
He further criticized Gambia’s representation at the United Nations, saying it lacked substance and failed to defend national interests. “Other countries spoke firmly. What did we say? Nothing,” he added.
Badjie warned that the majority’s decision to adjourn without debate should not be seen as a cover to hide wrongdoing. “No one can escape accountability. Those trying to conceal their misdeeds will eventually be exposed,” he said.
He also urged Gambian citizens to question their representatives. “Ask your National Assembly members why they are not accepting adjournment debate. If the majority refuses debate, what are they trying to hide? A young man has been killed, yet we are silenced. This is unacceptable,” Badjie said.
The lawmaker called on opposition members to uphold their integrity and participate actively in parliamentary proceedings. “Opposition should not compromise its principles. We must vote and engage during debates, ensuring that our voices are heard,” he concluded.
Badjie described the adjournment without debate as a national disappointment and urged Gambians to be vigilant when voting, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right representatives for the country’s future.
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source: Mouhamed Mbye Garmi
What a lively debate were *not* having! 😄 Hon. Badjies right, silence is deafening, especially when its about currencies collapsing and young men being killed! Its like the National Assembly decided to put on its best mime act. No issues? Please! Our currency is dancing the macarena with the dollar, and someones even dead, yet they wont let the opposition sing a single note? Preposterous! Gambians better ask their reps why theyre afraid of a little parliamentary noise. Maybe they think accountability is a four-letter word. Lets hope voters hear the echoes of this silence come election time and choose representatives who actually talk, not just type their names on adjournment motions. 🗣️💬football.bros