The Gambia’s National Assembly established a seven-member special committee to investigate the sale and disposal of assets seized from former President Yahya Jammeh. This decision followed public outcry and demands for transparency regarding the handling of these assets.
The committee’s formation was prompted by revelations that certain assets, including vehicles and livestock, were sold during the active proceedings of the Janneh Commission, which had been investigating Jammeh’s financial activities. President Adama Barrow addressed the nation, assuring that his government would fully implement any recommendations from auditors and the parliamentary inquiry into the matter.
The committee’s mandate includes determining which assets were sold or transferred, investigating the legal and administrative processes used in their disposal, assessing valuation and pricing methods, and evaluating the management of proceeds. It also has the authority to recommend further investigations if discrepancies of a criminal or fraudulent nature are discovered.
Former Auditor General Karamba Touray expressed concerns about the committee’s capacity to conduct a thorough investigation, suggesting that auditors should be given unhindered access to all documents to review and report back to the Assembly.
The committee’s work is expected to be transparent and accessible to the public, with proceedings to be live-streamed to allow citizens to follow in real time. The committee has a mandate to report its findings to the National Assembly within 120 days from its first meeting.
The formation of this committee underscores The Gambia’s commitment to accountability and transparency in handling assets linked to former President Jammeh, aiming to address public concerns and ensure that the assets are managed in the best interest of the nation.
Leave a comment