The National Assembly of The Gambia has approved the extension of the state of public emergency across the country to 45 days to allow the government to put up measures to curb the spread of COVID-19 in the country.

The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Aboubacarr Tambadou tabled an extension proposal on Thursday for 90 days. He said it would give the government more time to prepare and organize themselves against COVID-19.

However, initial motion was rejected by the majority of the deputies who argued 90 days extension is unjustifiable considering the living condition of people.

"There have been divergent opinions on this among the members of the committee for an extension to the 90 days period. The committee finally agreed to recommend for 45 days,” the deputy Chairperson of National Assembly Standing Committee on Human rights and Constitutional Matters, Suwaibou Touray said during the Friday session that lasted until after 11 p.m.

Members subsequently approved the 45 days extension period citing that the restrictive measures during the period will affect people, most of whom live from hand-to-mouth condition.

The president of The Gambia Adama Barrow declared a state of public emergency on March 27 throughout the country for 21 days to curb the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Gambia has reported 4 cases of COVID-19. Two are cured and one deceased.