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Momodou
Denmark
11717 Posts |
 Posted - 02 Apr 2014 : 18:33:00
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President Jammeh Addresses the National Assembly on State of the Nation
By Muhammad Bah & Abdoulie G. Dibba
Foroyaa: Published on Tuesday, 01 April 2014
In fulfillment of section 77 of the constitution which requires the president to address the National Assembly at least once every year, President Yahya Jammeh yesterday, Monday, 31 March, 2014 presented his government’s programmes in the preceding year as well as the development plans for 2014 before the people’s representatives.
Addressing deputies at the National Assembly in Banjul, President Jammeh said he has been following their debates on key policy documents and is impressed by them. He said the government’s priority is to give much focus on the productive sectors and key social services.
He told the National Assembly members that the needs of the sectors have been identified in order to receive the requisite attention and government resources.
According to President Jammeh, despite the pressure on the global economy, the national economy remains resilient and inflation is under control, adding that the economy grew by 5.4% up from 5 ¼% in 2012, but the physical deficit reached 8% of the GDP and that the domestic borrowing reached 6% of GDP.
He said the government would implement policies to support fiscal prudence by combining revenue and expenditure measures.
President Jammeh said the government would intensify the implementation and monitoring of the tax laws in the country. He outlined the comprehensive public finance management reform strategy which begins in 2014-2018, adding that it is to promote efficiency and macroeconomic stability, improving revenue mobilization and enhance the integrity of the budget process by strengthening public procurement systems and financial accountability.
The president also announced that the legal framework underpinning the public financial management system is in the process of amendment in order to introduce reforms in accounting and internal audit systems and depth management system.
He added that the debt management operation in lease financial agreements on-lending arrangements with public enterprise and government guaranteed debts will be accounted.
He informed the deputies that the bill will be introduced to control the use of public resources and funds.
He expressed his belief that this will address the efficiency and effectiveness of financial management in government through the implementation of modern financial management practices.
Source: Foroyaa
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A clear conscience fears no accusation - proverb from Sierra Leone |
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Momodou
Denmark
11717 Posts |
Posted - 02 Apr 2014 : 19:03:17
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STATE OF THE NATION ADDRESS and Not STATE OPENING OF PARLIAMENT
Foroyaa Editorial: Published on Tuesday, 01 April 2014
There is nothing like state opening of parliament in the Gambian constitution. The state comprises the executive, the legislature and the judiciary. Under a monarchy, the absolute monarch is the state. Sovereignty resides in him or her.
Under a Republic there is separation of powers between the Legislature and the executive. In order to keep the legislature informed of the legislative agenda of the executive and its general policies, Section 77 of the constitution Subsection 1 states that: “The President shall at least once in each year attend a sitting of the National assembly and address a session on Assembly the condition of The Gambia, the policies of the Government and the administration of the State.”
It is wrong to call such an address state opening of parliament.
At best, it could be characterised as a state of the nation address. Foroyaa is reviewing the address and will form an opinion on it after it is published.
Source: Foroyaa |
A clear conscience fears no accusation - proverb from Sierra Leone |
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Nyarikangbanna
United Kingdom
1382 Posts |
Posted - 03 Apr 2014 : 11:10:59
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Nonsense! Why can't it be called 'State Opening of Parliament'. It is the occasion in which the govt outlines its legislative agenda for the year and it is presided over by the head of state. In essence, it is the beginning of the legislative yr. I therefore see nothing wrong in it being described as State Opening of Parliament. I think Foroyaa editors do sometimes run out of kola nuts
In a monarchy, whether absolute or constitutional, there is nothing like 'A State'. They have what is called 'The Crown'.
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I do not oppose unity but I oppose dumb union. |
Edited by - Nyarikangbanna on 03 Apr 2014 23:17:19 |
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sankalanka
270 Posts |
Posted - 03 Apr 2014 : 15:20:24
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Nyari, I think you are being critical just for the sake of it. And I don't think the distinction that Foroyaa made between a "STATE OF The NATION" address and "THE STATE OPENING OF PARLIAMENT" is nonsensical.
First of all, Foroyaa outlines the constitutional mandate that makes it a requirement for the president to appear before the national assembly every year to deliver a speech on the "State of the Nation."
In this speech, the president is required to talk about the state of the economy, the policies of the government and the general administration of the state.
He is not there to give a speech about the opening of parliament. This occasion may be scheduled to coincide with the beginning of the legislative year for the national assembly, but the fundamental import of the whole exercise is for the president to tell the sitting of this national assembly, The STATE OF THE NATION.
The second part of your observation about a monarchy is all about semantics. Yes, a monarchy can be called a crown, but it also represents the state.
And the reason why Foroyaa used the word "state" instead of "crown" in that context, I would assume, is to make the distinction between a Republic and a Monarchy.
It is the same as the common usage of the word "Parliament" to address the National Assembly. One could also argue that we don't have a Parliament; we have a National Assembly. Thus, is it correct to address the National Assembly as the Parliament? What do you think? |
Edited by - sankalanka on 03 Apr 2014 18:23:02 |
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Nyarikangbanna
United Kingdom
1382 Posts |
Posted - 03 Apr 2014 : 23:14:38
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Rene, firstly, the constitution provides no name for this event. What Foroyaa called it is their own make up.
Secondly, in terms of political and constitutional terminology, there is no such thing as 'state' in monarchy system whether absolute or constitutional monarchy. 'State' is a republican term. In monarchies, the term used is 'Crown'.
Thirdly, even monarchies like the UK, this event is called Queen/King's Speech, not state opening of parliament. Foroyaa's insinuation is that 'State Opening of Parliament' is a monarchical thing, and that is utter nonsense.
I maintain that there is nothing wrong in this event being called State Opening of Parliament. This does not mean that foroyaa's preferred terminology is wrong but it is just that; their preferred terminology.
You have entangled yourself in Semantics; National Assembly and Parliament are the same.
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I do not oppose unity but I oppose dumb union. |
Edited by - Nyarikangbanna on 03 Apr 2014 23:31:13 |
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sankalanka
270 Posts |
Posted - 04 Apr 2014 : 16:41:48
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quote:
Originally posted by Nyarikangbanna
"Rene, firstly, the constitution provides no name for this event. What Foroyaa called it is their own make up."
Nyari, according to the relevant provision in the constitution quoted by Foroyaa, there is indeed no explicit mention of a "State of The Nation", but one can also argue that it is implied. That is why Foroyaa suggested that in order to more appropriately reflect the occasion it should be called a "State of The Nation" address.
In the United States Constitution, Article 11, section 3 commands the US President to give a similar information to the US congress, but in this provision the term "The State Of The Union" is in the provision. So it is just a matter of what is more appropriate.
"Secondly, in terms of political and constitutional terminology, there is no such thing as 'state' in monarchy system whether absolute or constitutional monarchy. 'State' is a republican term. In monarchies, the term used is 'Crown'."
But the 'Crown' is also the 'state' in that it represents the legal embodiment of the executive, legislative and judicial governance of the state, which is any governed entity or country.
Crown is simply the same as a state, with explicit reference to a monarchy. Thus where you have a Crown Attorney or Prosecutor in the United Kingdom, in the United States they are called State Attorneys or State Prosecutors.
"Thirdly, even monarchies like the UK, this event is called Queen/King's Speech, not state opening of parliament.
Foroyaa's insinuation is that 'State Opening of Parliament' is a monarchical thing, and that is utter nonsense."
Although National Assembly and Parliament are the same thing, Parliament is more aligned to a parliamentary system, and the State Opening of Parliament more suited to that set up, thus the reason why it is inappropriate to call what the constitution commands the president to do as State Opening of Parliament.
I maintain that there is nothing wrong in this event being called State Opening of Parliament. This does not mean that foroyaa's preferred terminology is wrong but it is just that; their preferred terminology.
You have entangled yourself in Semantics; National Assembly and Parliament are the same."
Yes, it is the same. But why do states that have republican constitutions now prefer National Assemblies instead of Parliament?
Thanks
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Edited by - sankalanka on 04 Apr 2014 17:51:07 |
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Nyarikangbanna
United Kingdom
1382 Posts |
Posted - 04 Apr 2014 : 20:11:42
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Rene, it can also be argued that 'state opening of parliament is implied' and that would also be correct. Therefore, Foroyaa should have just said they do not prefer this term but to say that it is monarchical and wrong is bunkers.
If it was monarchical, it would not have used the term 'state' because that is not a monarchical terminology. As a matter of fact, this event is monarchies is called Queen/king's speech/address.
As you can see, I do not dismiss foroyaa's preferred terminology. I just wish they said that is what they prefer rather than saying the other terminology is wrong. I suggest you percel them some kola nuts. They must have run out of stock.
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I do not oppose unity but I oppose dumb union. |
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Nyarikangbanna
United Kingdom
1382 Posts |
Posted - 04 Apr 2014 : 21:51:35
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Rene, giving what I stated in my first post, it can also be argued that 'state opening of parliament is implied' and that would also be correct. Therefore, Foroyaa should have just said they do not prefer this term but to say that it is monarchical and wrong is bunkers.
If it was monarchical, it would not have used the term 'state' because that is not a monarchical terminology. As a matter of fact, this kind of events in monarchies is called Queen/king's speech/address.
As you can see, I do not dismiss foroyaa's preferred terminology. I just wish they said that is what they prefer rather than saying the other terminology is wrong. I suggest you percel them some kola nuts. They must have run out of stock.
Thanks |
I do not oppose unity but I oppose dumb union. |
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sankalanka
270 Posts |
Posted - 05 Apr 2014 : 00:15:31
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"Rene, giving what I stated in my first post, it can also be argued that 'state opening of parliament is implied' and that would also be correct. "
Nyari, 'state opening of parliament' cannot be implied because we do not have a parliament. We have a National Assembly.
Granted that parliament can also mean an assembly of the legislative body, there is a significant but subtle difference.
Legislatures in a parliament operate under a parliamentary system, and legislatures in a National Assembly operate under a presidential system. In the parliamentary system the president is not directly elected by the people. And in the presidential system the president is elected directly by the people. In the parliamentary system the executive may be constitutionally answerable to the parliament. But in the presidential system there are separation of powers between the executive, the legislature and the judiciary. So the use of parliament in this context is not appropriate.
"Therefore, Foroyaa should have just said they do not prefer this term but to say that it is monarchical and wrong is bunkers."
Foroyaa clearly indicated that they do not prefer this term, that is why they suggested the more appropriate term which is line with what the president is commanded to do in that constitutional provision. Deliver a speech on the "State of The Nation".
But we do have monarchies and parliamentary systems are most closely associated with a monarchical system. That is why Foroyaa made the distinction between a Republic and a Monarchy.
"If it was monarchical, it would not have used the term 'state' because that is not a monarchical terminology."
Nyari, your preferred term 'Crown' is the state in all respects. Countries that do not have a monarchy used the concept of the 'state'.
"As a matter of fact, this kind of events in monarchies is called Queen/king's speech/address."
The Queen/King's Parliamentary speech/address will also be apt. Or the Queen/King's speech/address to Parliament.
"As you can see, I do not dismiss foroyaa's preferred terminology. I just wish they said that is what they prefer rather than saying the other terminology is wrong."
Yes, they indicated that is what they preferred. That is why they suggested that terminology. The other terminology is proven to be inappropriate. Hence it is wrong.
I suggest you percel them some kola nuts. They must have run out of stock.
I will certainly do that.
Thanks
I do not oppose unity but I oppose dumb union. |
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kobo
United Kingdom
7765 Posts |
Posted - 05 Apr 2014 : 00:39:02
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PRESIDENT JAMMEH ADDRESSES THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ON STATE OF THE NATION Part 1
Published on Thursday, 03 April 2014 | Written by Saikou Nyassi
Dear esteemed readers we wish to publish the President’s speech verbatim by serializing it.
The State Opening of the National Assembly is always a moment of reflection as we review progress made during the previous years and lay out our plans for the future. This year's event is of special importance because it coincides with the 20th anniversary of the great July 22nd Revolution that brought us real independence and gave more meaning to institutions that represent the voices of our citizens like this National Assembly.
The state opening of the National Assembly is one of the most important fora that allows me to present to the Gambian people, a statement of account of the past year's development programme of my Government as well as our plans and projects for the new year and beyond as we march towards our ultimate objective of attaining of not only vision 2020 but economic super power status which is no longer a far-fetch dream.
Overall, we are proud of our achievements over the past nineteen years for which I convey my sincere gratitude and heartfelt congratulations to all the patriotic and Allah Fearing Citizens and genuine friends of The Gambia for their hard work and dedication. The impact of our collective effort is positively felt in all parts of the country and covers all sectors of our economy ranging from public infrastructure, agriculture, to vital social service like health and education.
The impact of these and other myriad development initiatives have been felt not only within the borders of this country but also by those living in distant countries who continue to respond to the beckoning allure of the Smiling Coast of Africa for most memorable and deserved vacations of a life time or use our shores for thriving business enterprises or to prepare themselves for their journeys in discovering the world beyond Koina and Kartong.
From the onset, let me take this opportunity to applaud the Honourable Speaker of the National Assembly and indeed all Honourable Members of the National Assembly for the in depth analysis and debate of Bills and other matters brought before this patriotic assembly during the year 2013.
Your thorough and very objective debate of the various Bills presented to you over the past months demonstrate your commitment to the welfare of the Gambian people for which I am grateful. In the same vein it is with a deep sense of joy that I commend the members of this assembly, for the wonderful job you have been doing in properly and adequately representing The Gambia and strategic national interests in international fora such as the ECOWAS Parliament and the Pan African Parliament just to mention a few, influence our hegemony, and your refusal to entertain the attempts of imperialist institutions to force down our throat agreements that tend to not only ensure their continued merciless exploitation of our resources to our own detriment but nullify our sovereignty.
You have made us all proud as free-born Almighty Allah-only-worshipping citizens of this great country. I have followed your debates on key policy documents such as the national budget and I must say that I am impressed by the quality of debates and the emphasis you have always placed on relevance and quality of spending to meet the needs of the people you represent in this Assembly.
My special commendation goes to the APRC Party Caucus in the National Assembly. Your specialized committees have also made the headlines for the past year for very positive and meaningful reasons. Let me take this opportunity to salute the PAC/PEC committee for being a very alert and responsive watchdog looking out for the interest of the Masses.
I am aware that the PAC/PEC is now a model for other countries as well as multilateral agencies around the world that keeps on sending teams to this Assembly on study tours. I take great pride in your achievements because they have manifested my doctrine of accountability, probity and justice for truly democratic institutions under the July 22nd You have ably conveyed to the rest of the world the pride and independence of this country.
From the vibrant support you have been giving to Government policy in our bid to extricate ourselves from all shades of neo-colonialist Revolution that represent the true interest of the people of this country. The fight against corruption is not only a duty for The Government, Judiciary and the Legislature but a divine duty and a moral obligation for All Allah fearing Citizens of the country.
The Holy Quran enjoins all Muslims to not only desist from corruption but to eradicate it and this is exactly what PAC-PEC and my Government stand for. Honourable Speaker, It is critical for Government to continue to design and implement effective policy initiatives and programmes to promote the realization of our national development agenda. Towards this end, our Government has been hard at work to achieve speedy implementation of our policies and programmes, as highlighted in Vision 2020, in order to realise our people's aspirations. Given the increasing pressure on available financial resources due to the growing needs for the provision of services, Government will continue to prioritize our interventions strictly by focusing on the productive sectors and key social services. We must ensure that sectors where the greatest needs have been identified, receive the requisite attention and resources Honourable Speaker, As I now begin the review of sectoral activities, I will start with the economic sector since it underpins all the achievements registered since the advent of the July 22nd Revolution.
In order to realize Gambia's strong economic potential, the 2014 budget is anchored on consolidating macroeconomic stability and accelerating the attainment of government's development agenda in partnership with the private sector. Therefore, our economic development strategy for year 2014 budget is based on the following three inter-linked priorities, namely:
1. High and sustainable economic growth;
2. Employment creation; and 3. Lowering net domestic borrowing to 2.5 percent of GDP in 2014, and to contain this ratio to near zero percent in the medium term. We are working to realize these three objectives simultaneously, with a focus on the sub-sectors of manufacturing, agriculture and tourism.
Overall, we are pleased that the economy remained resilient and inflation under control despite pressure on the economy due to the unfavourable international economic climate.
The economy performed reasonably well in 2013, growing at 5.4 percent marginally up from 5114 percent in 2012. Furthermore, overall fiscal deficit reached 8°/o of GDP, whilst net domestic borrowing reached 6°/o of GDP.
Government will therefore continue implementing policies that support fiscal prudence using a combination of revenue and expenditure measures with the objective of lowering net domestic borrowing.
In this vein, let me urge my fellow citizens, especially corporate citizens to improve the discharge of their tax obligations for the betterment of the country. If there is any country in the world where the payment of taxes is justified, it is this country especially under the July 22 nd Revolution. The public amenities and infrastructure that we all enjoy are provided from tax revenues and therefore my Government will always intensify the implementation and monitoring of the tax laws of this country.
A comprehensive Public Finance Management (PFM) Reform Strategy (2014-2018) was launched this year 2014 with the goal of promoting the efficient use of resources. The reforms are particularly concentrated on promoting macroeconomic stability, improving revenue mobilization, enhancement of the integrity of the budget process strengthening Public Procurement systems and financial accountability.
The legal framework underpinning the Public Financial Management Reforms, the Gambia Budget Management Accountability Act (GBMAA) is in the process of being amended to take into account recent reforms in Accounting and Internal Audit Systems, as well as Debt Management operations in the areas of lease finance agreement, on lending arrangements with Public Enterprises, and Government guaranteed debts.
The Amendment Bill which will be introduced soon in this noble Assembly will provide greater control in the use of public resources and funds by seeking to address the critical needs of efficiency and effectiveness of financial management in Government through the implementation of modern financial management practices.
In the area of cash management and accounting, the IFMIS has been interfaced with the core banking module of the Central Bank of The Gambia. This provides the Treasury directorate with online access to government bank accounts to enhance treasury management, and automating the bank reconciliation functions. Furthermore, to enhance financial reporting the payment of salaries and pensions have also improved Staff and pensioners who are paid through the banks get their payments credited directly to their bank accounts, through Central Bank. This has eliminated the manual posting of staff salaries at the level of the commercial banks.
The IFMIS has also been interfaced with the Debt Management module at the Ministry of Finance, in order to enhance the debt management function of government.
PUBLIC PROCUREMENT
Honourable Speaker, in the area of Public Procurement, reforms are already at an advanced stage and center on the amendment of the Gambia Public Procurement Authority (GPPA) Act to incorporate the separation of policy and regulatory functions of the GPPA, create an Independent Complaints Review Board and strengthen the definition of sanctions and fines within the Act. Coupled with the above, a procurement Cadre has been introduced in the Civil service, along with a robust capacity building initiative for the cadre.
The legislative and administrative changes will make public procurement simpler, more transparent, and accountable with adequate checks and balances consistent with national laws and best practice.
To be continued
Foroyaa Governance and Democracy |
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kobo
United Kingdom
7765 Posts |
Posted - 05 Apr 2014 : 00:42:02
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PRESIDENT JAMMEH ADDRESSES THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ON STATE OF THE NATION Part: 2
Published on Thursday, 03 April 2014 | Written by Saikou Nyassi
Dear esteemed readers we wish to publish the President’s speech verbatim by serializing it.
This is a continuation of the speech TOURISM and CULTURE Honourable Speaker, In recent years, developments in the tourism sector are encouraging with a visible increase in the number of visitors. We will therefore continue our efforts to promote the sector given its wide ramifications for the entire economy. In view of the above, my government's policy of encouraging investment in the hospitality industry will continue for the foreseeable future as we continue to diversify our source markets as well as address the resultant challenges that the tourism industry is faced with in regard to providing adequate quality hotel accommodation facilities; considering the significant increase in visitor arrival figures in the last two years.
My Government's ultimate objective in this domain is to turn this Great Nation into the holiday destination of a life time and by the grace of The Almighty Allah, this objective will be achieved sooner rather than later. Honourable Speaker, The past year witnessed the establishment of the Copyright Collecting Society Board, thus kick starting the process of ensuring that the economic and moral rights of producers in the arts and literature are duly protected.
In 2014, my government, through the Ministry of Tourism and Culture and the National Centre for Arts and Culture (NCAC), will take steps to institutionalize the administrative organ of the Society in order to begin the process of collecting and distributing royalties to deserving Artists etc. As part of celebrations marking the 20th Anniversary of the July 22nd Revolution and the 50th anniversary of our Independence, a multi-faceted Cultural Celebration Programme will be pursued, including inter-alia, a major "Excellence in the Arts" Awards Ceremony to recognize lifetime achievements for deserving artists as well as blockbuster exhibitions and Publications that will bring into sharp focus, the country's achievements under the July 22nd Revolution.
EDUCATION
Mr. Speaker, the provision of education of relevance and good quality continues to receive the priority it deserves from my Government. Following the revision of the Education Policy 2004-2015 and the subsequent development of the Education Sector Strategic Plan 2014 - 2023 and the Medium Term Education Sector Plan 2014· 2017, the Ministry of Basic & Secondary Education has recently secured approval of $US18.8 million for the implementation of the Results for Education Achievement and Development (READ) Project jointly funded by the World Bank and the Global Partnership for Education.
The READ Project is aimed at increasing access to basic education, particularly in deprived communities, improving quality of teaching and learning in lower basic schools and strengthening institutional and management systems in the education sector. Alongside the READ Project, a bilingual project of US$10 million supported by the Islamic Development Bank is being implemented to support the modernization of Madrassah Education in The Gambia with focus on the construction and furnishing of 250 classrooms with sanitary and water facilities and the improvement of the quality processes to enhance teaching and learning.
In an effort to engage additional development partners with a view to mobilizing resources for funding of the financial gap highlighted in the education sector medium term plan, the Arab. Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA) has approved the sum of US$ 11.3 million to support increased access to basic and senior secondary education in Regions one and Two, This project will be able to meet the growing demand for upper basic and secondary school places in these two regions through the construction and rehabilitation of 42 basic and senior secondary schools.
This will include the construction of classrooms for schools in communities I promised new schools during my last dialogue with the People's Tour. Notwithstanding, the contributions from our development partners in the education sector, my Government will continue to increase basic and secondary education allocation in the national budget as we are committed to achieving education for all within the shortest time possible.
This is demonstrated through Government's counterpart contribution of US$16 million to the READ Project from the national budget. Further demonstrating this unflinching commitment, my Government will introduce the provision of grants to the public upper basic schools in September 2014 as it is already the case with the public lower basic schools with effect from September 2013.
By providing such grants the cost burden of education on the households will significantly reduce to a level that allows every household in this country to be able to educate their children with absolute affordability irrespective of geographical location and income level.
This is a promise I am making good to Gambians especially our women who bear the brunt of educational expenses for their children and inshaa Allah I will never fail in making sure that their children get quality education in this country. As we seek to improve the quality of Education for students in basic and secondary education, the processes of teacher training both in-service and pre-service will be reviewed and improved in order to raise the profile and output of teachers.
HIGHER EDUCATION
Honourable Speaker, In the higher education sub-sector, my government will continue to support tertiary institutions especially the University of the Gambia to provide the requisite manpower in support of our national development endeavour.
So far, the UTG has lived up to our expectation given the number and caliber of its graduates over the past years especially in Law and Medicine. The final design of the University of The Gambia Faraba Banta Campus has already been produced after a thorough review and consultation with stakeholders and the Consultant- Pan Arab Consulting Engineers.
The magnificent state-of-the-art campus, when completed, will provide a more conducive learning environment. The Ministry of Higher Education in collaboration with the University of The Gambia (UTG), Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (MoBSE) and other Government and non-Government institutions, the Experts and Consultants have finally validated the first ever Tertiary and Higher Education Policy and the National Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Policy during the last quarter of 2013.
INFORMATION AND COMMUNI CATION TECHNOLOGY (ICT),
Honourable Speaker, The telecommunication sector continues be given high priority given that there cannot be any meaningful development in today's world without proper telecommunication infrastructure. This is why Government made the bold decision of investing in the ACE submarine project to ensure speedier and reliable communication to facilitate business, education, health and research.
Although our international bandwidth has increased significantly and all service providers have increased their bandwidth capacity, we are yet to realize the full impact of this development as the carrying capacity of GSM and Internet· Service Providers remains limited.
Therefore, we will continue our efforts to support the public and private GSM and Internet Service Providers to improve their carrying capacity to match the increased band width. Government is also embarking on another project to upgrade the national transmission backbone under the ECOWAN project. This project contract has been signed and construction work is expected to commence in April 2014 and to end by June 2015. The ECOWAN project also includes the provision of a government-wide area network to enhance our e-government connectivity service. To this end, MolCI has been gradually developing a data centre which will eventually evolve to a National data centre for the Gambia. The current facility which hosts the Government e-mail service and Web portal will be expanded in order to host several e-Government services of various sectors under a secured cyber environment.
TRANSPORT, WORKS, INFRASTRUCTURE AND NATIONAL ASSEMBLY MATTERS
Honourable Speaker, Public works and transport infrastructure continue to attract maximum attention from my government as no meaningful development can occur without the requisite public infrastructure. Over the past 19 years my Government has and continues to invest significantly in road transport infrastructure, the airport and seaport, and I am pleased to report here that the strategically important Mandinaba-Soma highway has recently been completed except for the pavement works and sealing of shoulders. Also, the Brikama- Marakissa- Darsilami -Dimbaya Loop Road Project is progressing satisfactorily. The project which includes drainage is 97°/o complete and it is expected to be completed on time. Upon completion of the high class road, an important part of the country will be open to more opportunities and communities will have easier access to health care and access to the major markets for their agricultural produce.
The construction of a foot bridge at Marakissa is also progressing, with 75% of the works completed. This project complements the Brikama - Marakissa -Darsilami – Dimbaya Loop Road in that its design will accommodate traffic that will result from the upsurge of vehicular traffic when the access roads linking the villages are completed. Other significant projects in the offing are the Laminkoto - Passimas Road which remains the outstanding section of the national road network that is yet to be constructed.
It is pleasing to note that Government has signed a loan agreement with the Kuwaiti Fund to the tune of $30 million for the construction of this road. The IDB has pledged a total of $35 million for the project. The Saudi Fund has approved $20 million while the OPEC Fund and BADEA have also made pledges to fund the project.
The procurement process of The Trans- Gambia Bridge is now at an advanced stage, with the completion of the pre qualification of the companies for the construction of the Bridge. The Basse - Vellingara road Project which starts in Basse and runs to the southern border is 79°/o complete and would hopefully be completed this year, 2014. It involves rehabilitation of the road as well as construction of the Basse Bypass.
The construction of the New National Assembly is almost at the completion stage, with the civil works completed. Additionally, the commissioning of water supply and electricity is virtually completed. Overall works completed is estimated at 84°/o. The new completion date of the project is April, 2014. The contractors and supervisors are hereby strongly advised to make sure this latest extension of deadline is adhered to without fail.
Improvement of facilities at the Banjul International Airport continues to make it competitive and to be one of the leading Airports in Africa is on course. Works which will be undertaken this year are the expansion of the checking-in facilities by introducing additional counters with associated carousels, and flight information display systems (FIDS). This development will significantly improve the simultaneous checking-in capacity for both airlines and passengers and lessen the pressure on terminal facilities during peak periods. The 2nd phase of the airport improvement project will begin this year and will entail runway expansion, construction of fire and rescue station, supply and installation of Instrument Landing System and rehabilitation of the New Terminal Building, all geared towards making the airport a 21st century modern Airport.
PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT OFFICE
Honourable Speaker, It is gratifying to note that the Civil Service reform strategy is being successfully implemented. Today, most sectors in the service are guided by strategic plans linked to Vision 2020. The full roll out of MTEF, which is a medium term budgeting and expenditure process, will require the preparation of strategic plans for all sectors. I therefore call on those sectors without this important guiding tool to do so without delay as the absence of strategic plans have been a significant missing link in the drive towards attainment of Vision 2020 and other development blueprints.
All sectors have now been provided with the requisite man power needs to enable them ·to prepare sector specific plans and the excuse of lack of capacity to do so is now obsolete. At the macro level, my government is poised to introduce client charters for all sectors for greater performance accountability, citizen engagement and responsiveness to all government programs. The charter will require all sectors to make public their key mandates and services provided. In this new paradigm shift in public service deliver, every sector will be held accountable for the expected outcomes they owe to their clientele: sectors need to be able to explain how long it takes to clear a container, to secure a passport, to register a business, and what is the emergency response time for the Police, Fire & Rescue Services for instance.
The Civil Service Reform programme also includes the current Pay and pension systems review. In this regard, PMO with support from the World Bank is in the process of finalizing the review of the pay and grading as well as the pension systems. During this legislative year the draft Pension Act will be brought to the floor of this Legislative body for enactment.
The reform of the Pay and Pension systems is expected to boost our capacity as a government to attract and retain quality human capital for effective service delivery. It may please this House to note that as part of our retention strategies, the Civil Service Revolving Loan Scheme (CSRLS) has been revived for eligible and deserving civil servants.
Following Cabinet's approval of the CP on the implementation of the CSRLS in June 2013, I am pleased to report that about D 24.5 Million have been disbursed in two Phases in favour of civil servants to build houses, purchase vehicle or address other personal needs.
PETROLEUM
Honourable Speaker, Following the recent termination of the licenses for offshore Blocks A1 and A4 and onshore Block Upper River in January 2013 due to lack of performance by Africa Petroleum Gambia Limited (APGL) and Oranto respectively, the Ministry of Petroleum continues to embark on rigorous marketing and negotiation of offshore blocks (A1, A3, A4, A6,) and onshore Blocks (Lower & Upper Rivers).
Henceforth, we will no longer deal with companies who sit on the oil blocks for speculative purposes. Therefore, we will look for strategic partnership in the form of Joint ventures with friendly governments around the world.
This policy shift is necessitated by my government's divine obligation to ensure that Gambians enjoy the highest possible returns on our Allah-given natural resources. With regard to the downstream sector, the Gambia National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) Bill is being processed and will be placed before this Assembly for enactment during this legislative year.
The objective of this legislation is to provide a legal framework for the establishment and operations of the Gambia National Petroleum Corporation. As part of GNPC development plans, the company has completed the construction of the remaining service stations in Bansang, Abuko and Bundung making a total of nine (9) stations which are currently fully operational in all regions of the country.
The company is also embarking on securing more land properties for future expansion. The construction of GNPC Headquarter Building at the Brusubi round-about is in progress. Upon completion, the building will provide office space for the Ministry of Petroleum, GNPC, Data Management Center and also raise funds through rentals.
HEALTH & SOCIAL WELFARE
Honourable Speaker, My Government remains committed to its promise to make quality health services available to all citizens of the country regardless of location, especially as we aspire to meet the Vision 2020 and MDG-based targets.
Although we will continue to pay maximum attention to curative services, we emphasize preventive services and urge Gambians to live a healthy lifestyle through not only exercise and healthy eating habits, but eating what we grow and growing what we eat.
In terms of In terms of "Universal Coverage", The construction and
refurbishment of seven (7) health facilities countrywide, the construction of two (2) new health centres in Kalagie and Janjangbureh, construction of academic facilities and student dormitories at the State Enrolled Nurses training School in Bansang and the construction of staff quarters at the AFPRC General hospital in Farafenni, when completed would lead to full Nationwide coverage. In addition, there are on-going refurbishment and face-lifting works at several facilities including the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital and Soma Major Health Centre, among others entirely funded by the Gambia Government.
In addition to these, plans are underway for the construction of main office complex for the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and Accommodation blocks for healthcare workers nationwide. Also within the "Universal Coverage" scheme, prov1s1on of vital lifesaving equipment is being intensified; fourteen (14) Gambian Medical Doctors - trained at the UTG have been posted to Hospitals and Major Health centres in the country.
Additional doctors will also be deployed to Kiang Karantaba, Kuntaur and Yorro Bawol Health Centres within the next few months. Coupled with the above developments, the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare is working towards providing functional operating theatres in all Major Health Facilities; one of which, Soma Health Centre, was recently completed and has so far successfully conducted eleven (11) lifesaving surgical operations.
The Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has registered steady progress towards attainment of its PAGE-, MDG-, and Vision 2020- targets. The recently concluded Demographic Health Survey shows infant and under five mortality rates were 75 per 1000 and 99 per 1000 live births respectively in 2005, and in 2013; these indicators were reduced to 34/1000 and 54/1000 live births respectively showing that in the past six (6) years the Gambia registered reductions in infant mortality by 54o/o and for under five mortality by 45 %. Furthermore, The Gambia continues to maintain high immunization rates above 90°/o for all the antigens for children.
INTERIOR and INTERNAL SECURITY
Honourable Speaker, In the area of national security, the Police and other law enforcement agencies will continue to develop strategies to counter crime and criminal tendencies. My Government is committed to a very safe and secure environment in which all persons can move freely in pursuit of their lawful businesses without let or hindrance.
In pursuit of this goal, the Ministry of Interior has initiated the following activities to strengthen its mandate as well as re-focus its work to better serve the Gambian populace. The Gambia Prison Service has embarked on a series of rehabilitation projects at the Mile II Central Prison and the construction of prison cells in Janjangbureh Prison in Central River Region. These include the construction of new visitors' rooms, tailoring workshop, a library and the renovation of the central storage facility in Mile II Prison. Plans are also well ahead to expand the Old Jeshwang Prison and relocate the Female prison wing thereby creating more space in Mile II. The Gambia Prison Service in its continuous drive to improve prison conditions is working on a comprehensive prison reform agenda for consideration by Government.
Mr. Speaker, my Government will continue its fight against illicit drugs given its destructive effect on society, especially the youth. We will deploy the necessary logistics to. NDEA and all other security services to curb the drug menace in the country. Alongside stiff penalties, we will also increase sensitization on the effect of the use of illicit drugs. In 2013, the Agency organized two drug destruction exercises following successful conclusion of cases at narcotics courts.
In March 2013,the two (2) tons of cocaine worth over one billion US Dollars seized in Bonto in 2010 was destroyed and in December 2013, the Agency also destroyed large quantities of drugs including Cannabis Sativa, Heroine and Harshis. In line with United Nations principles of global security and those of the African Union and ECOWAS, my Government will continue to guard our sovereignty and play a vital role in regional peace and security.. Further, the global efforts in fighting international crime, terrorism, piracy and other unacceptable acts will continue to be part of our strategy for addressing peace and security as well as protecting our borders, on land, sea and air.
ENERGY
Honourable Speaker, the energy sector still remains a challenge despite massive investment in the sector over the past years with the acquisition of new generators andbuilding of a new power station at Brikama.
These investments are dwarfed by the ever increasing request for electricity both for domestic and industrial use. Notwithstanding, we shall continue to pursue policies and strategies to expand electricity generation to ensure more reliable and affordable electricity supplies for domestic and industrial use. To this end a number of power generation and distribution projects have been embarked upon with the collaboration of our Development Partners. These include: a) The Western Region Electrification Project which is 85°/o complete. b) The Venezuela Project which entails the installation and rehabilitation of transformer stations, conductors and distribution panels.
The first phase has been commissioned and operational. c) Rural Electrification Extension Project The objective of which is to improve Power Generation, and Transmission systems in the Rural Areas, including installation of HFO Generator Sets. It is envisaged that 44 other settlements will benefit from this project extension The contract has been signed and site works are in progress to finalize survey design and other logistics. d) The Brikama Power Project financed by Government of the Gambia is producing Electricity into the Network; the IDB funded Brikama (II) 20MW Power Supply is to increase NAWEC Power Generation capacity from Brikama Procurement for the phase II is in progress. e) Energy Development and Access Expansion Project (EDAEP) This is a $6 million project being supported by OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID).
The scope of works for this project includes: Design Review, Material Procurement, Construction, Installation and Commissioning of a 32 KM 33 KV line, 33/1 1Kv Feeders and low voltage Networks for Ten Villages (namely Bafuloto, Makumbaya, Kubarikko, Galoya, Kubuneh, Kunkujang Jattaya, Mandinari, Kerewan, Darusalam and Daranka). A Contract has been signed with Global Trading Group N.V and construction material is expected soon. The 33/11 KV Substation Civil Works is 70% complete.
Foroyaa Governance and Democracy |
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kobo
United Kingdom
7765 Posts |
Posted - 05 Apr 2014 : 00:44:42
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[quote]Originally posted by Nyarikangbanna
Nonsense! Why can't it be called 'State Opening of Parliament'. It is the occasion in which the govt outlines its legislative agenda for the year and it is presided over by the head of state. In essence, it is the beginning of the legislative yr. I therefore see nothing wrong in it being described as State Opening of Parliament. I think Foroyaa editors do sometimes run out of kola nuts
1. Does "Nation" (Republic of The Gambia) have a "National Assembly" or a "Parliament"? Foroyaa clearly stated ""It is wrong to call such an address state opening of parliament. At best, it could be characterised as a state of the nation address.
2. Is it proper to describe "National Assembly" event as "Head of Sate" "Opening of" National Assembly; as you stated above that "it is presided over by the head of state"
CHAPTER VI THE EXECUTIVE - PART 3: EXECUTIVE POWERS
The Executive power and National Assembly
"Section 77 of the constitution Subsection 1 states that: “The President shall at least once in each year attend a sitting of the National assembly and address a session on Assembly the condition of The Gambia, the policies of the Government and the administration of the State.”"
In a monarchy, whether absolute or constitutional, there is nothing like 'A State'. They have what is called 'The Crown'. = FALLACIOUS!
1. A "STATE" is not "A CROWN" or "THE CROWN"
2. Dictionary.com defines STATE adj: "of or pertaining to the central civil government or authority." So I agree with Foroyaa on this line; "Under a monarchy, the absolute monarch is the state. Sovereignty resides in him or her."
3. Cambridge Dictionary defines STATE adj: " provided, created, or done by the state (= government of a country):" & "State events are formal official ceremonies that involve a leader of a country or someone who represents the government: (e.g) the state opening of Parliament". In this sense for The Gambia Our Homeland, the state opening of "National Assembly" instead of "the state opening of Parliament" can be proper.
It should be noted that "in some countries, the group of (usually) elected politicians or other people who make the laws for their country:" represent PARLIAMENT. Therefore not all countries describe its legislative assembly as parliament. The Republic of The Gambia has a NATIONAL ASSEMBLY inserted in its Constitution and not PARLIAMENT. The word "PARLIAMENT" appear in 1972 Constitution but never written, stated or indicated to represent Our "NATIONAL ASSEMBLY" constituted in the 1997 Constitution. That nomenclature is one of the major differences between the 1972 Constitution of 1st Republic and 1997 Constitution of 2nd Republic (i.e. present era); in our transition post-independence towards a fully fledged democratic country ok
4. USEFUL NOTES:
Head of state is a constitutional model. The head of state "is the highest-ranked official position in a sovereign state. The head of state is vested with powers to act as the chief public representative of that state.
Heads of state in most countries are natural persons holding an office, an official. The term head of state is often used differentiating it from the term head of government.
For instance, in parliamentary systems like the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the Federal Republic of Germany; the Monarch and the President are recognized as their respective heads of state, while the Prime Minister and the Chancellor are recognized as the heads of government.
However, in republics with a presidential system, as in (The Gambia,) the United States and the Federative Republic of Brazil, their presidents are recognized as being both heads of state and heads of government. The latter is also generally true in absolute monarchies and sometimes as well in other forms of authoritarian government, buttressing point in Foroyaa Editorial that; " Under a monarchy, the absolute monarch is the state. Sovereignty resides in him or her."
The role of the head of state generally includes legitimizing the state and exercising the functions and duties granted to the head of state in the country's constitution, laws, unwritten customs, or by their traditions." SOURCE: Wikipedia
5. Editorial is very informative for civic/political education and to inform citizens on the pomp and ceremony.
Thanks |
Edited by - kobo on 05 Apr 2014 06:48:41 |
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kobo
United Kingdom
7765 Posts |
Posted - 05 Apr 2014 : 00:47:52
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Presidential State Opening address adopted
Friday, April 04, 2014
Members of the National Assembly Thursday adopted the motion "Return thanks to H.E the President of the Republic for His Gracious Speech marking the Official Opening of the 2014 Legislative Year”.
Laying the motion before the House at the start of the debate on Wednesday, the Majority leader and member for Serrekunda East, Hon. Fabakary Tombong Jatta, thanked the president for his very objective and articulated speech full of humor.
“It is a constitutional requirement that the president comes to parliament to table before deputies his government programmes for the past year and plans for the year ahead and beyond. As parliamentarians, I must also thank you because it is only in democracy where the chief executive of the state would acknowledge, appreciate and applaud parliamentary oversight over the executive decision,” he stated.......
Full Report from Daily Observer |
Edited by - kobo on 05 Apr 2014 06:49:21 |
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Nyarikangbanna
United Kingdom
1382 Posts |
Posted - 05 Apr 2014 : 11:13:27
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Rene, you have conceded that it is countries that do not have monarchies that do use the term 'state' and I thank you for that. You keep saying 'state' and 'crown' are the same but who said they are not? All I said is that as a matter of political and constitutional terminology, you don't use 'state' in a monarchical context and that means state opening of parliament cannot reasonably be perceived as monarchical as Foroyaa did.
The only thing I would add is; while a state evolves around the people, a crown evolves around the king/queen but this difference is superficial in the real world as in constitutional monarchies- the most prevalent form of monarchy in the world- political power is actually exercised by elected officials on behalf of the queen/king.
I am astonished by your postulation that the term Parliament is somehow different from National Assembly. Parliament is a general political term referring to legislative chambers of any sort. National Assembly is merely a constitutional description. If we are to go by your anology, then Gambia had no parliament since independence because the constitutional description given to parliament in the first republic is 'House of Representatives'. My point is; these are all political and legal semantics. All legislatures can rightly be called 'a parliament'. For example, if you ask an Israeli 'do you have a parliament?' He/she would say 'yes, it's called the Knesset'. And if you ask him/her ' what is the Knesset?' He/she would say; 'the Israeli parliament'.
You said in parliamentary systems, presidents are not directly elected. Well that is not strictly true for there are a number of parliamentary systems with directly elected presidents. This include Kenya, Zimbabwe, South Africa and Gambia under sir Dawda. I know you gonna start saying; they do not have a prime minister. Well, they do not have to have a prime minister to practice parliamentary democracy although this is the most common norm but only where executive power does not lie in the president. Where executive power lies in the president, govt is usually represented in parliament by the Vice President and all other ministers of govt, not only as cabinet members but also bona fide sitting members of parliament.
This brings me back to your notion that the term National Assembly is used in presidential systems. Parliament is parliament and the constitution of a country can call it anything but it would still remain a parliament. If you understand the distinction between politics and law, you will understand what I am talking about. Otherwise, I can't help you. I know you will buy anything from those scruffy ultra-socialists at Foroyaa without hesitation or scrutiny.
Giving what I said in my first posting, I maintain that there is nothing wrong in this event being called 'State Opening of Parliament'.
Thanks |
I do not oppose unity but I oppose dumb union. |
Edited by - Nyarikangbanna on 05 Apr 2014 12:13:30 |
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sankalanka
270 Posts |
Posted - 05 Apr 2014 : 23:35:35
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"Rene, you have conceded that it is countries that do not have monarchies that do use the term 'state' and I thank you for that."
That is correct. But look at the context in which Foroyaa used the term 'state' in reference to a monarchy. They are merely alluding to a fact that a monarchy is the same as a State. They did not say that a monarchy can also be called a state. This is where I believed you missed the point.
You are the one who brought the argument that "In a monarchy, whether absolute or constitutional, there is nothing like 'A State'.
If anything, may be you need to clarify this statement. Do you mean that a monarchy cannot be compared to a state? Or do you mean that in any reference to a monarchy, its concept, there is nothing like a state?
Obviously and I have no doubts that the editors at Foroyaa know that a monarchy is called "The Crown." They used the word "State" only to make the point that a monarchy is the same as a state. And whereas in a republic sovereignty resides with the people. In a monarchy sovereignty resides with the monarch. This is the simple and basic point they are making in the quote below.
"Under a monarchy, the absolute monarch is the state. Sovereignty resides in him or her."'Foroyaa'.
"You keep saying 'state' and 'crown' are the same but who said they are not? "
You are the one who introduced the word "Crown' to say that Foroyaa's use of the word "State" to compare it with a monarchy is wrong. And our argument is that "state" and "Crown" are synonymous.
"All I said is that as a matter of political and constitutional terminology, you don't use 'state' in a monarchical context and that means state opening of parliament cannot reasonably be perceived as monarchical as Foroyaa did."
And the argument is the context in which the word 'state'is used. Foroyaa did not used the word in a monarchical context, whatever that means, but they used the word to imply that a monarchy is the same as a state.
And as for perceiving the state opening of parliament as monarchical, that is your own inference.
"The only thing I would add is; while a state evolves around the people, a crown evolves around the king/queen but this difference is superficial in the real world as in constitutional monarchies- the most prevalent form of monarchy in the world- political power is actually exercised by elected officials on behalf of the queen/king."
How is this statement different from what Foroyaa implies in their editorial: In a republic, sovereignty resides with the people. In a monarchy sovereignty resides with the Queen/King.
In essence, the Gambia is a republic and we should not be behaving like we are in a monarchy.
"I am astonished by your postulation that the term Parliament is somehow different from National Assembly. Parliament is a general political term referring to legislative chambers of any sort. National Assembly is merely a constitutional description. If we are to go by your anology, then Gambia had no parliament since independence because the constitutional description given to parliament in the first republic is 'House of Representatives'. My point is; these are all political and legal semantics. All legislatures can rightly be called 'a parliament'. For example, if you ask an Israeli 'do you have a parliament?' He/she would say 'yes, it's called the Knesset'. And if you ask him/her ' what is the Knesset?' He/she would say; 'the Israeli parliament'."
I will concede to your points above. Parliament is a general terminology that is applicable to any legislative assembly.
"A parliamentary system is a system of democratic governance of a state in which the executive branch derives its democratic legitimacy from, and is held accountable to, the legislature (parliament); the executive and legislative branches are thus interconnected. In a parliamentary system, the head of state is normally a different person from the head of government. This is in contrast to a presidential system in a democracy, where the head of state often is also the head of government, and most importantly: the executive branch does not derive its democratic legitimacy from the legislature.
Countries with parliamentary systems may be constitutional monarchies, where a monarch is the ceremonial head of state while the head of government is almost always a member of the legislature (such as United Kingdom, Sweden and Japan), or parliamentary republics, where a mostly ceremonial president is the head of state while the head of government is regularly from the legislature (such as Ireland, Germany, Pakistan, India and Italy). In a few parliamentary republics, such as South Africa and Botswana, the head of government is also head of state, but is elected by and is answerable to the legislature." (Wikipedia.)
"The South African Government
South Africa is a multiparty parliamentary democracy in which constitutional power is shared between the president and the Parliament. The parliament is bicameral, consisting of National Council of Provinces (the upper house) and the National Assembly (the lower house).
The National Council of Provinces has 90 members, while the National Assembly has 400 members. Elections for both chambers are held every five years. The government is formed in the lower house and the leader of the majority party in the National Assembly is the President."
South Africa: The government is formed in the lower house and the leader of the majority party in the National Assembly is the President.
"since the end of apartheid in 1994, African National Congress (ANC) has dominated South African politics and ruled the country. The main opposition parties are the Democratic Alliance, the Congress of the People (a split-off from ANC), and the Inkatha Freedom Party, which mainly represents Zulu voters."
"You said in parliamentary systems, presidents are not directly elected. Well that is not strictly true for there are a number of parliamentary systems with directly elected presidents. This include Kenya, Zimbabwe, South Africa and Gambia under sir Dawda."
I have researched the claim that presidents could be elected directly in a parliamentary democracy especially in the countries you have cited. In the above citation I have posted about South Africa this doesn't seem to be the case. The leader of the majority party in the parliament is the president. In Zimbabwe, the parliamentary system in which the President is the head of state and government is as recent as organized in their 2013 constitution. Kenya too is the same. The parliamentary system as organized is as recent as their 2010 constitution.
"I know you gonna start saying; they do not have a prime minister. Well, they do not have to have a prime minister to practice parliamentary democracy although this is the most common norm but only where executive power does not lie in the president. Where executive power lies in the president, govt is usually represented in parliament by the Vice President and all other ministers of govt, not only as cabinet members but also bona fide sitting members of parliament."
The two citations I have posted above more reflects my position and in some cases are supportive of my postulations. My main contentions about parliamentary and presidential systems remain relevant.
"This brings me back to your notion that the term National Assembly is used in presidential systems."
The fact remains that countries with republican constitutions most likely would call it a National Assembly. Countries with a parliamentary system would call their legislative assemblies parliament. Notwithstanding, parliament is a general term that can be used to describe any legislative assembly.
"Parliament is parliament and the constitution of a country can call it anything but it would still remain a parliament."
That is the point. Most republican constitutions call it a National Assembly.
"If you understand the distinction between politics and law, you will understand what I am talking about. Otherwise, I can't help you."
What is the distinction between law and politics? Are they govern by the same principles or different principles?
"I know you will buy anything from those scruffy ultra-socialists at Foroyaa without hesitation or scrutiny."
You bet.
Giving what I said in my first posting, I maintain that there is nothing wrong in this event being called 'State Opening of Parliament'.
And we maintain that it is more appropriate to call the event "The State of The Nation" address.
Thanks |
Edited by - sankalanka on 05 Apr 2014 23:53:46 |
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Nyarikangbanna
United Kingdom
1382 Posts |
Posted - 06 Apr 2014 : 01:28:30
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Rene, is the issue not about terminology? Foroyaa said the term State opening of parliament is monarchical, and I said the term ' state' is not known to a monarchy. The monarchical term is 'crown'. In order words crown is the monarchical version of a state. They are not strictly the same although in the context of constitutional monarchies, there are two types of monarchies; constitutional and absolute, the difference is superficial. I have already explained that.
There is no reason why this event cannot be called State Opening of parliament. It is the event that they use to mark the beginning of the legislative yr and it's presided over by the head of state. The constitutional mandate of the president is also delivered in the process. So why can't it be called state opening of parliament? If Foroyaa want to call it a different name. No one is going to fault them for that but they have no constitutional basis to fault others too on their preferred terminology. This is my point.
I am not going to dwell on the other points- I disagree with you on most of them-because they are not relevant. And by the way, thanks for conceding the fact that we have a parliament in The Gambia. I was extremely worried when you previously said we haven't.
Thanks |
I do not oppose unity but I oppose dumb union. |
Edited by - Nyarikangbanna on 06 Apr 2014 01:36:17 |
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| Bantaba in Cyberspace |
© 2005-2024 Nijii |
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President Jammeh Addresses the National Assembly
