PASTEF The Gambia organized a coalition to support an independent presidential candidate after the National Assembly rejected a draft constitution for 2024. The party argues the decision blocks democratic reforms and maintains an electoral system that favors incumbents through simple majority rules.
Sidibeh, the group's communications officer, stated that lawmakers prioritized partisan goals over national interests when they rejected the proposed framework. The draft would have established presidential term limits and required candidates to win 50 percent plus one vote to claim victory.
The rejected constitution aimed to replace the 1997 charter with provisions for second-round voting and the formation of coalitions. PASTEF The Gambia promoted the document as a path toward accountable governance and balanced competition among political factions.
The existing 1997 rules allow presidents to win with basic plurality outcomes. Opposition parties face structural disadvantages when challenging sitting leaders in elections under these conditions.
Sidibeh, the group's communications officer, stated that lawmakers prioritized partisan goals over national interests when they rejected the proposed framework. The draft would have established presidential term limits and required candidates to win 50 percent plus one vote to claim victory.
The rejected constitution aimed to replace the 1997 charter with provisions for second-round voting and the formation of coalitions. PASTEF The Gambia promoted the document as a path toward accountable governance and balanced competition among political factions.
The existing 1997 rules allow presidents to win with basic plurality outcomes. Opposition parties face structural disadvantages when challenging sitting leaders in elections under these conditions.
