“There can never be system change without constitutional reforms”-CoPG Spokesman said.

The Coalition of Progressive Gambians (CoPG) has renewed its call for constitutional reforms, accountability, and good governance, warning that meaningful system change in The Gambia is impossible without the reinstatement of the 2020 Draft Constitution.

Speaking at a press conference held at the Youth Monument in Westfield, CoPG leaders emphasized that corruption, rising cost of living, youth unemployment, and illegal migration remain direct consequences of weak institutions and unchecked executive power.

“As we dawn into 2026, another important year in our political calendar, we are obliged to remind, renew, and reassure Gambians of our commitment to holding public servants and officials to account,” the CoPG chairperson said.

The coalition expressed deep concern over the continued loss of young Gambians to irregular migration.

“When you see young people running out of the house into the fire, then something is wrong with the house,” the chairperson said.
“It is time to question our leaders and hold them to account.”

CoPG urged young people to use their voting power wisely in 2026, questioning political promises and demanding concrete plans.

The group also criticized recent legal developments, including:
* The 2023 Amendment Act, currently before the Supreme Court
* The removal of the Auditor General
* Expanded presidential pardon powers linked to the Janneh Commission

“These actions risk sliding our country back into authoritarianism,” CoPG warned.
Addressing political parties ahead of the election year, CoPG said:
“There can never be system change without constitutional reforms. The laws we have now cannot change the system,” a spokesperson said.
“If parties truly care about Gambians, they must explain how they will change the system without the 2020 Draft Constitution.”

CoPG reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful protests, civic engagement, and collaboration with civil society, stressing that it does not seek political office.

“We are not here to be ministers or presidents,” the coalition said.
“We are here to hold those in power accountable to deliver for the masses.”

The press conference concluded with a call for national unity, inclusive governance, and urgent action.