The Edward Francis Small Centre for Rights and Justice (EFSCRJ) has condemned President Barrow’s removal of Auditor General Modou Ceesay on September 10, 2025, as a blatant violation of the National Audit Office Act 2015. The group has called for the immediate reversal of the decision, which saw Ceesay replaced and appointed as a minister, labeling it an illegal attempt to undermine the independence of the National Audit Office (NAO).
The Auditor General, as head of the NAO, plays a pivotal role in ensuring transparency, accountability, and integrity in managing public funds. According to the NAO Act 2015, the office operates independently, free from political or administrative control, as stipulated in Sections 3(2) and 14(a). EFSCRJ argues that Ceesay’s removal constitutes direct interference with the NAO’s autonomy, compromising its ability to conduct impartial audits.
The Act outlines strict procedures for the removal of the Auditor General. Section 16(4)-(7) specifies that removal is only permissible on grounds of incapacity, misbehavior, or incompetence. For health-related reasons, a Medical Board must confirm incapacity. For misbehavior or incompetence, a Tribunal—comprising a High Court Judge, the Ombudsman, a Public Service Commission member, and a Chartered Accountant—must investigate and submit a report before any action can be taken. EFSCRJ has challenged President Barrow to disclose whether such a board or tribunal was constituted, questioning the legality of his decision.
Ceesay, appointed in November 2022, has served less than three years of his nine-year tenure, far short of the compulsory retirement age. EFSCRJ has urged him to reject both his removal and the ministerial position, emphasizing his duty to uphold the law. The group warns that without a transparent justification for the removal, the action is unlawful and erodes public trust.
EFSCRJ demands Ceesay’s reinstatement, full disclosure of the reasons for his removal, and strict adherence to the law by the President. They also call for an end to any interference with the NAO’s operations. “2025 is the year of transparency and accountability,” EFSCRJ declared, signaling its resolve to hold the government accountable. The controversy has sparked widespread debate, with many questioning the motives behind the sudden move and its implications for governance in The Gambia.
