By Ramatoulie Jawo
The Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD) in partnership with the Office of the Clerk on Friday, January 13, 2023, commenced a two-day capacity-building training for the National Assembly Select Committee On Finance and Public Accounts Committee (FPAC).
The objective of the two-day training is to create an enabling environment between FPAC and key stakeholders in enhancing information sharing to strengthen their oversight and accountability roles.
Speaking at the opening, the Country Representative of the Westminster Foundation for Democracy, Madi Jobateh, said since WFD opened its offices in the Gambia in 2018, its main partner is the National Assembly.
“Since we opened our office in the Gambia in 2018, our main partner is the National Assembly. A partnership that allowed us to have an office inside the National Assembly. Since then, we have been enjoying a great partnership with the leadership of the National Assembly,” Madi said.
Mr. Jobarteh added that their focus at the National Assembly since 2018 has been on supporting the Office of the Clerk both institutionally and in capacity-building training as well as working with the National Assembly Units and staff to build their skills and knowledge In various areas.
The Deputy Clerk of the National Assembly, Kalipha MM Mbye described the training as a laudable initiative.
Mr. Mbye said the primary function of the Office of the Clerk is to support the overall operation and functions of the National Assembly including its Committees both in technical and Clerical functions.
“Oversight responsive is the key function of the National Assembly and this responsibility is performed by the Committees. You can’t talk about oversight performance without mentioning these two Committees. Which are the Finance and Public Account Committee, and the Public Enterprise Committee. Because these are the hearts of accountability in Parliament. They hold the government to account as far as financial issues are concerned. So it is very important and timely that the Westminster Foundation for Democracy is coming up with this kind of forum to enhance its capacity. He said.
He further thanked the Honorable Members for taking the time to attend the two-day capacity building. While encouraging them to take good use of the knowledge that will be shared with them.
The Chairperson of the Finance and Public Accounts Committee, Alagie S. Darboe said the training could not have come at a better time than now.
“The training couldn’t have come at a better time than now as committees of the National Assembly will soon commence its oversight engagements. The valuable knowledge, relevant skills, and techniques that will be acquired from this two-day capacity building will greatly enhance our efficiency and productivity in executing our functions as representatives of the General Citizenry,” he told the gathering.
Hon. Darboe added that his Committee is seriously conscious of its functions and National concerns for transparency and accountability in their beloved country.
Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD) is a UK public body dedicated to strengthening democracy around the world.
For more than 30 years, they have actively helped democracies to grow stronger, so that freedom and prosperity can flourish.