By Ramatoulie Jawo
Ebrima Nyang, the Administrative Secretary 1 of the opposition Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC), shared his disappointment on Facebook regarding the government’s and the Minister of Justice’s decision to reintroduce the Judicial Officer’s Bill.
In his post, Nyang criticized the government’s stance, stating, “I write to express my disappointment with the government and the Minister of Justice, Dawda Jallow over their decision to reintroduce the Judicial Officers Bill.”
He questioned the government’s priorities, arguing that in the face of widespread economic hardship among Gambians, reintroducing such a bill is insensitive and ill-advised. Nyang emphasized that the majority of Gambians struggle with inadequate incomes that barely cover basic living expenses.
“I beg to ask this question: is Minister Jallow, a minister for the judicial system only, or is here to represent our interests as Gambians?”
Nyang recalled the bill’s previous rejection by National Assembly members and expressed concern that its reintroduction suggests a disregard for public sentiment. He criticized the bill as an affront to Gambians, particularly those in sectors grappling with financial strain.
“The judiciary needs to be content with the good pay they are enjoying compared to other sectors. Dawda Jallow never champions other sectors that are financially struggling but always with the high interest of helping the judiciary rob the poor people,” he added.
He highlighted that teachers, security personnel, healthcare workers, and others are all facing inadequate pay. He suggested that the government should focus its efforts on these sectors and collaborate with their respective ministers to provide support.
“To the National Assembly, the whole world is watching you, and I am sure you will not betray the Gambian people and the trust your people impose on you all,” he told lawmakers.
He added that Gambians voted in the legislators to defend and shape the future of the country, not to be used as a weapon by the Judiciary to attain their financial target.
“The National Assembly members were celebrated the last time you threw this irresponsible bill, and we are expecting the same energy,” he said.
He asserted that the National Assembly should not be manipulated, emphasizing that only bills serving the government’s interest are being presented to the legislature.
He declared that he will not be cornered unjustly, reminding all National Assembly Members that they have a legacy to uphold and must not compromise it under any circumstances.
He also highlighted that the Gambian people are severely affected by the current economic situation, and their hopes rest on the Assembly to address and improve these challenges for the citizens.
“The Executive has failed us; that is why this bill will be taken to the National Assembly. We have a government that has no interest in the masses and wants to manipulate the House to attain its objective,” Nyang said.
He also urged the National Assembly members to make decisions that will benefit the future of the country, expressing hope that they would not be let down. “This bill belongs in the dustbin,” he asserted.