Fabakary T Jatta The Speaker Of The National Assembly Giving a Speech At The National Dialogue Forum
By Ramatoulie Jawo
The Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon. Fabakary T. Jatta, has reaffirmed the legislature’s commitment to strengthening democracy, upholding the rule of law, and ensuring government accountability to the Gambian people.
Speaking at the second National Dialogue Forum, held as part of The Gambia’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations, Speaker Jatta emphasized the National Assembly’s role in enacting laws that promote peace, stability, and social development without discrimination.
“I wish to reiterate that the National Assembly shall continue to uphold its mandate, charged to it by the constitution and other laws of the Gambia, and will remain committed to fulfilling its social contract with the Gambian people. We will continue to ensure that the laws we passed are geared towards boosting democracy, rule of law, transparency, peace and stability and to deliver social services to all Gambians without discrimination,” he stated.
He further emphasized that the National Assembly would continue to hold the government accountable through its oversight functions to ensure that the aspirations of all Gambians are met.
Reflecting on the theme of the forum, Marching in Solidarity for Self-Reliance and National Development, Speaker Jatta noted its significance, particularly as the country marks 60 years of nationhood. He highlighted that democracy thrives when elected representatives exercise decision-making powers within the framework of the rule of law, guided by a constitution that protects individual rights and freedoms.
“It can not be debated that this country is fortunate to be governed by a dynamic and conscious political elite that commit themselves without reservations to the service of the people by not only embarking on infrastructure projects but also engendering and consolidating cardinal democratic and political values,” he said.
Speaker Jatta emphasized that as the state continues to create an enabling environment for citizens to exercise their freedoms and shape their own future, it is essential for them to uphold their loyalty to the nation. He stressed that true democracy requires not only active participation and the exercise of rights but also adherence to fundamental principles and democratic values.
He further highlighted that Marching in Solidarity for Self-Reliance and National Development calls for a collective understanding that national progress must be driven by the people themselves. He underscored that sustainable development can only be achieved when citizens take an active role in shaping their country’s future.