By Makutu Manneh
The Local Government Commission of Inquiry has officially concluded its public hearings, bringing to a close a 28-month investigation into the financial and administrative operations of local councils across The Gambia.
The commission, established to probe council activities between May 2018 and January 2023, heard testimony from more than 386 witnesses, including officials from the Ministry of Lands, Regional Government and Religious Affairs, the Gambia Public Procurement Authority (GPPA), the National Audit Office (NAO), eight area councils, contractors, and suppliers.
Delivering his final remarks, Lead Counsel Patrick Gomez said the inquiry uncovered systemic failures in council operations, particularly in relation to compliance with financial and procurement laws.
He argued that revenues collected by the councils over an extended period have not been adequately monitored to ensure they serve the interests of the people.
“We have seen that the operations of the council’s bank accounts do not follow regulations. We have evidence throughout this process to show that the finance directors and CEOs have enjoyed absolute freedom to withdraw money and could not be accounted for. In some cases, they get help from the mayor or chairperson,” he stated.
He further charged that the GPPA, mandated to regulate procurement processes, had in some cases turned a blind eye to irregularities. “In some instances, there are instances to suggest that they would turn a blind eye in making sure that there is strict adherence to procurement regulations,” he noted.
Counsel Gomez stressed the need for significant work to strengthen the financial regulations governing area councils.
Chairperson Jainaba Bah added that the commissioners expect the preparation of the report, along with the analysis of the submitted documents, to be carried out with diligence. “We are looking forward to working expeditiously in putting together the report,” she concluded.