Ousman Madikay Faal, Secretary General and Party Leader PPP
5th March 2025
The recent decision by the National Assembly to deny the Gambian diaspora the right to vote is a deeply concerning setback in the journey of advancing democracy in The Gambia.
It is vital for Gambians living abroad to have the means to engage in the electoral process as it was intended in our constitution. Their involvement is not merely a formality; it represents a fundamental right that allows them to voice their opinions and provide crucial input towards decisions that impact our collective future.
The contribution of the Gambian diaspora is invaluable. Many of these individuals provide critical financial support to their families back home, helping to cover living expenses, medical bills, and educational costs. Beyond personal financial assistance, they often spearhead community projects—ranging from investments in local businesses to funding healthcare initiatives—that stimulate economic growth and foster resilience within our communities. By sidelining these dedicated citizens from participating in the voting process, the National Assembly dismisses the significant role they play in the socio-economic development of The Gambia.
It is deeply disheartening to observe the ongoing efforts aimed at restricting the diaspora’s role primarily to sending financial support through remittances to their families, communities, and government institutions. This narrow perspective overlooks the invaluable contributions that diaspora members make beyond mere financial assistance. The diaspora deserve not only recognition but also the respect they have earned through their dedication to improving the lives of others and supporting their communities.
The principle of universal suffrage is not just a democratic ideal but a cornerstone of an inclusive governance system. By expanding the right to vote to every Gambian, regardless of where they reside, we can gain a richer, more diverse perspective on the ambitions and concerns of our populace.
It is essential that our elected officials authentically represent all Gambians—those living within our borders as well as those contributing from abroad—ensuring a government that truly reflects the will of the people.
I fervently call upon the National Assembly to rethink its position on this crucial issue. By allowing the diaspora to vote, they can prevent the further alienation of a vital segment of our population, reinforcing the principle of universal adult suffrage, which strips away inequalities and affirms that every citizen’s voice matters in shaping our democracy.
The inclusion of diaspora voting is not just a political agenda; it stands at the core of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) manifesto. The PPP was founded with the mission of combating the marginalization faced by numerous citizens and ensuring that universal adult suffrage is accessible to every Gambian, irrespective of their geographical circumstances.
As the leader of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), I vow to champion an inclusive political framework. Let us all unite to reassess this decision and collaborate towards a solution that honors the rights of all Gambians, guaranteeing that every person has an equal say in molding our shared destiny. Together, we can forge a future where no citizen is left unheard and where our democracy thrives on the collective input of everyone, both at home and abroad.
Ousman Madikay Faal (Pa Alhagi)
Secretary General and Party Leader