By Kebba AF Touray
The Chairperson of the National Assembly’s Special Select Committee investigating the sale and disposal of assets linked to former President Yahya A.J.J. Jammeh has issued a stern public warning, declaring that any efforts to obstruct or conceal information from the committee will be treated as a serious offense against the legislative body.
Speaking at the committee’s sitting on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, Hon. Abdoulie Ceesay, who heads the parliamentary inquiry, emphasized that the pursuit of transparency, accountability, and truth is non-negotiable.
“The citizens rightfully expect and deserve full transparency, accountability and undiluted truth in this matter,” Hon. Ceesay said. “Any attempts to conceal information, delay submissions or subvert the legitimate authority of the committee will not be tolerated.”
His remarks followed what he described as troubling signs of non-cooperation from both individuals and institutions that have been summoned to appear before the committee. According to Chairperson Ceesay, the committee has recorded multiple instances of delays in the submission of vital documents, non-appearance at scheduled hearings without justification, and overall lack of diligence in preparing for the proceedings.
He pointedly noted that “insufficient preparation and failure to produce essential records during appearances,” as well as “the evasive demeanor of witnesses,” were undermining the integrity of the inquiry.
Hon. Ceesay reminded the public that the committee’s authority is not arbitrary, but grounded firmly in The Gambia’s legal and constitutional framework. Specifically, he cited Section 109(3) of the 1997 Constitution, which endows parliamentary committees with powers equivalent to those of the High Court.
“The committee operates within a clear constitutional framework, and its powers are derived directly from the Constitution of The Gambia and the Standing Orders of the National Assembly,” he said. “These powers are not merely symbolic.”
The powers referenced include the authority to summon witnesses, compel the production of documents, enforce attendance, and take actions necessary to uphold the committee’s mandate. Any refusal to comply with these directives, the Chairperson warned, constitutes contempt of the National Assembly.
“Any action or inaction that seeks to frustrate or undermine the exercise of these powers is tantamount to an act of contempt of the National Assembly,” Hon. Ceesay stated. “We will not hesitate to escalate such matters.”
He stressed that all individuals and institutions summoned must comply fully and promptly. Failure to do so, he warned, will be deemed “willful obstruction and a deliberate lack of cooperation.”
In such cases, the committee reserves the right to formally refer those matters to the full National Assembly for further disciplinary action. Potential consequences may include contempt proceedings, recommendations for prosecution, and other sanctions as provided under Gambian law.
Chairperson Ceesay’s warning comes amid mounting public scrutiny over how the assets of former President Jammeh — many of which were investigated by the Janneh Commission — were handled, disposed of, or potentially misappropriated. The current inquiry seeks to establish a transparent accounting of those assets and the processes through which they were sold or transferred.
Reaffirming the committee’s mission, Hon. Ceesay described their work as both a constitutional duty and a moral obligation to the Gambian people.
“Our duty is not only a legal imperative but also a moral and national obligation,” he said. “The committee is steadfast in its commitment to serving the paramount interest of the Gambian people.”
He urged all summoned parties to engage with integrity, come fully prepared, and demonstrate a spirit of cooperation. Any deviation from this, he reiterated, will not be taken lightly.
“Obstruction or contempt will be met with the full constitutional and legal weight of the National Assembly,” he concluded. “This inquiry will proceed with unwavering resolve, and it will steadfastly pursue the truth.”
The committee’s sessions continue as lawmakers push to shed light on one of the most sensitive and politically charged episodes in The Gambia’s post-Jammeh transition.
