Demba Baldeh Calls for Gambian Diaspora to Demand Voting Rights and Constitutional Reforms
By Buba Gagigo
Diaspora Leader Advocates for Political Reforms and Accountability
Demba Baldeh, a prominent Gambian activist based in Seattle, has launched a movement urging Gambians abroad to demand greater recognition of their contributions and push for crucial political reforms. Speaking at the Kerr Fatou Diaspora Forum, Baldeh emphasized the need for diaspora voting rights and constitutional changes.
“Governments Only Give What Citizens Demand”
Baldeh delivered a powerful message: “Government everywhere in the world would not give you anything that you did not demand. We have to demand to be respected as Gambians, we have to demand that our contribution to the Gambia means a lot.”
The activist stressed that this movement would transcend political divisions: “We’re mobilizing Gambians based on diaspora voting and a new constitution. It’s not based on partisan politics, because politics is what divides us.”
Addressing Systemic Challenges in The Gambia
Baldeh highlighted several critical issues facing The Gambia:
Port Inefficiencies and Governance Failures
Sharing his personal experience with port operations, Baldeh noted: “In less than two months, citizens from another country cleared the backlog without new equipment. This shows we’re holding ourselves back.” He questioned why Gambian authorities couldn’t achieve similar results despite years of operation.
Revenue Collection Concerns
The activist criticized the Gambia Revenue Authority for setting low targets: “GRA is supposed to collect more than D30 billion but they set the expectation so low. Where is all the money that was coming from the port?”
Constitutional Right to Vote Being Denied
Baldeh addressed the National Assembly’s rejection of diaspora voting rights, clarifying: “Our right to vote is guaranteed by the Constitution. It’s a matter of political will to implement.” He explained that Section 14 already provides the framework for diaspora participation, but implementation has failed.
The activist concluded with a call to action, urging Gambians worldwide to unite in demanding better governance and accountability from their leaders.