Africa-Press – Gambia. The National Assembly on Monday approved the 2026 Appropriation Bill without debate, following a tense session marked by confusion, shouting, and a rare division vote.
The unrest began when Hon. Alhagie Babou Ceesay, Member for Sabach Sanjal, moved a motion under Standing Order 53(c) to adopt the Finance Minister’s budget speech and proceed to the second reading without debate. The motion was seconded by Hon. Abdoulie Ceesay, Member for Old Yundum.
The proposal sparked protests and interruptions across the chamber, with several lawmakers attempting to rise while others shouted over the Speaker. Despite repeated appeals for order, the motion was put to a voice vote. Some members demanded a formal division, which resulted in 24 votes in favor, six against, and 10 abstentions. The Speaker subsequently declared the motion carried.
Following the vote, the finance minister delivered brief remarks, expressing gratitude to members for advancing the budget process despite the absence of debate. The Appropriation Bill then proceeded to its second reading and was passed without objections.
Before adjourning, the Speaker acknowledged the tension in the chamber and urged members to adhere to parliamentary procedures. The Assembly will reconvene on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at 10 a.m.
Observers noted that the swift approval of the budget, a key moment for legislative scrutiny, highlighted divisions among lawmakers and an unusual deviation from parliamentary tradition.
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