The Edward Francis Small Centre for Rights and Justice (EFSCRJ) has urged all public institutions in The Gambia to adopt a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption following the recent actions of the State-Owned Enterprises (SOE) Commission. The SOE Commission placed Momodou Ceesay, Managing Director of the Gambia Printing and Publishing Corporation (GPPC), on administrative leave amid ongoing corruption investigations.
EFSCRJ’s statement highlights a longstanding concern regarding the lack of transparency and accountability in Gambian governance, which it identifies as a significant obstacle to development since the country gained independence. The organization argues that this deficiency has led to public offices being perceived as venues for self-service rather than public service.
EFSCRJ has released a statement commending the State-Owned Enterprises (SOE) Commission for swiftly placing Momodou Ceesay, the Managing Director of the Gambia Printing and Publishing Corporation (GPPC), on administrative leave.
EFSCRJ has emphasized the importance of conducting the investigation impartially, in accordance with relevant laws and best practices. The organization also highlighted the need to protect Mr. Ceesay’s rights throughout the process to ensure fairness.
The EFSCRJ has committed to monitoring the progress of the investigation and has called on the SOE Commission to keep the public informed about the investigation’s outcome, including releasing a comprehensive report. The organization stressed the importance of transparency in maintaining public trust and confidence in public institutions, which is crucial for legitimacy and accountability.
The EFSCRJ expressed optimism about the SOE Commission’s decision, viewing it as a positive step towards addressing corruption at high public office levels. The organization believes that firm action against misuse of office sends a strong message that corruption will not be tolerated, which is essential for eradicating graft from public institutions.
According to the EFSCRJ, this situation has contributed to governmental inefficiencies, poor service delivery, resource mismanagement, and widespread corruption. The organization links these issues to broader socioeconomic challenges in the country, including poverty, high living costs, unemployment, limited opportunities, and human rights abuses.
In response to these challenges, EFSCRJ has declared 2025 as the “Year of Transparency and Accountability.” The organization is committed to ensuring that public institutions and officials are held accountable and operate transparently. EFSCRJ commends the SOE Commission’s recent actions as a significant step towards these goals and encourages other institutions to follow suit.
