VP Jallow Says Government to Replace Anti-Corruption Commission Nominee Amid Integrity Concerns

By Fatou Sillah

Vice President Muhammed B.S. Jallow has disclosed that the government’s decision to replace one of the approved nominees to the Anti-Corruption Commission is among the reasons for the delay in operationalising the body.

Speaking before the National Assembly on Wednesday in response to a question from Brikama North NAM and Minority Leader Hon. Alagie S. Darboe, the Vice President said the Executive deemed it necessary to seek a replacement in accordance with the integrity and suitability requirements stipulated under the Anti-Corruption Act.

“I think everybody will recall that there were a lot of issues raised about the suitability of one of the nominees. There was a claim of corruption raised, and the government felt that because of that, the person needed to be replaced,” Vice President Jallow told lawmakers.

He revealed that the process of identifying a replacement nominee is already at an advanced stage and is expected to be concluded soon.

“The process of identifying a suitable replacement is well advanced and is expected to be finalized shortly,” he said.

Responding to follow-up questions from members of the Assembly regarding whether the allegations against the nominee had been substantiated, the Vice President clarified that the decision was not based on any formal finding of wrongdoing. Rather, he said, it was prompted by concerns that the allegations had created doubts about the nominee’s suitability to serve on an institution tasked with combating corruption.

“I didn’t say that there was an adverse finding. I said there were some questions raised, there are some accusations of corruption, and it is felt that because it’s an Anti-Corruption Commission and if there is a specter of doubt on one of the Commissioners, that is why it’s necessary to replace that person,” he explained.

Vice President Jallow emphasized that the government’s primary consideration was preserving public confidence in the commission. He added that the nominee’s response to the allegations had not sufficiently dispelled the concerns that had been raised.

“It’s not that it has been proven or not. We are dealing with the Anti-Corruption Commission, and there were allegations made. If you are supposed to be a member of the Anti-Corruption Commission and there are doubts being raised about corruption and even your response is not clearing that doubt, the government felt that it’s better to replace that individual,” he said.

The Vice President did not mention the nominee by name during his remarks. However, the comments relate to concerns previously raised regarding Almami S. Manga, who faced allegations of bribery and unethical conduct linked to a land dispute.

The allegations claimed that Manga received money from an individual involved in the dispute. Screenshots purportedly showing Wave money transfers circulated on social media, prompting public calls for an investigation and for his removal from the newly established Anti-Corruption Commission.

The Anti-Corruption Commission was established under legislation passed by the National Assembly as part of efforts to strengthen transparency, accountability, and the fight against corruption in The Gambia.