Lawmakers pushed a major environmental bill forward during Monday's heated session at the National Assembly. Environment Minister Rohey John Manjang brought the National Environment Management Bill 2025 before parliament members. The new law would replace outdated rules from 1994 that experts say have serious problems. Manjang told the assembly that modern environmental challenges need stronger protection measures. The bill covers everything from chemical controls to climate change action.
Upper Fulladu representative Bakary Kora jumped up to support the minister's proposal. He praised the comprehensive nature of the environmental legislation. Kora argued that protecting natural resources requires teamwork from all levels of government. The lawmaker stressed that one ministry cannot handle environmental issues alone. Community groups and citizens must work together to save the country's natural wealth.
Banjul South member Fatoumatta Njie threw a curveball into the proceedings. She demanded that lawmakers skip the general debate and send the bill straight to committee review. Other assembly members questioned this unusual move during the floor discussion. Deputy Speaker Seedy Njie allowed a vote on the controversial motion. The assembly agreed to delay broader debate until committee experts finish their detailed study.
The environment bill heads to the Assembly Business Committee for assignment to the right working group. Committee members will examine every section before sending recommendations back to the full assembly. Minister Manjang thanked fellow lawmakers for moving the legislation forward. The bill will return for final debate after committee analysis wraps up.
Upper Fulladu representative Bakary Kora jumped up to support the minister's proposal. He praised the comprehensive nature of the environmental legislation. Kora argued that protecting natural resources requires teamwork from all levels of government. The lawmaker stressed that one ministry cannot handle environmental issues alone. Community groups and citizens must work together to save the country's natural wealth.
Banjul South member Fatoumatta Njie threw a curveball into the proceedings. She demanded that lawmakers skip the general debate and send the bill straight to committee review. Other assembly members questioned this unusual move during the floor discussion. Deputy Speaker Seedy Njie allowed a vote on the controversial motion. The assembly agreed to delay broader debate until committee experts finish their detailed study.
The environment bill heads to the Assembly Business Committee for assignment to the right working group. Committee members will examine every section before sending recommendations back to the full assembly. Minister Manjang thanked fellow lawmakers for moving the legislation forward. The bill will return for final debate after committee analysis wraps up.
