Gambia’s National Assembly has extended by six months the commission of inquiry probing into the financial activities of the former President Yahya Jammeh and his close associates.
Abubacarr Tambaedou, Attorney General and Minister of Justice has moved the motion calling for the increment of remuneration for the members of the commission of inquiry headed by Surahata Janneh with two commissioners Bai Mass Saine and Ms Abiosseh George.
The commission was first mandated to complete its inquiry within a period of 3 months but could also extend when it feels necessary which request was made to extend it by 6 months after the 3 months expired.
“We therefore request this August Assembly to consider and approve the increment of remuneration to an additional amount of D500, 000 for each of the said commissioners,” Justice Minister Tambadou said.
Among the reasons given was the emergence of new evidence which warrants calling of more witnesses to testify before the commission including numerous public enterprises, bodies and offices that are the subject of the inquiry but are yet to be heard.
“The nature and complexity of the investigations covering a period of over 22 years,” he added.
The justice minister further spoke about the nature and complexity of the evidence adduced by witnesses which would necessitate the procurement of the services of forensic accountants as well as auditors.
Several National Assembly Members commended the findings of the commission and supported the motion but still some questioned the source of the funds which the minister directed them to the Ministry of Finance.
Meanwhile, the motion was approved by all the members of the National Assembly.
