The People’s Progressive Party (PPP), led by Secretary-General Ousman Madikay Faal, has called for a thorough investigation into the handling of former President Yahya Jammeh’s assets by the Janneh Commission, following a revealing exposé by the Republic newspaper. The commission, established to scrutinize Jammeh’s wealth and ensure its restitution to Gambians, is now under scrutiny for allegedly allowing assets to be acquired by a select few, undermining public trust.
In a statement published in the Republic, PPP leader Ousman Madikay Faal demanded full transparency, urging the government to disclose the list of individuals who acquired these properties publicly. “The allegations raise serious concerns about the integrity of the Commission’s work,” Faal said, emphasizing the need for accountability to restore confidence in Gambia’s institutions.
The Janneh Commission was a cornerstone of Gambia’s transitional justice efforts, tasked with recovering misappropriated national resources. However, the Republic’s report suggests that some assets may have been diverted, sparking public outrage. Faal stressed that such revelations threaten the commission’s purpose and the country’s democratic progress.
The PPP also called for the government to respect citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly, warning that restricting these freedoms could fuel discontent and destabilize the nation. Faal urged the release of detained individuals and emphasized treating young people with dignity, ensuring their access to legal counsel, and upholding the presumption of innocence.
“We cannot allow a privileged few to benefit at the expense of the Gambian people,” Faal declared, pressing for decisive action to address the allegations. The PPP’s demands come at a critical time, as public trust in governance hangs in the balance.
The government has yet to respond to the PPP’s calls, but pressure is mounting for a transparent investigation. As Gambians await answers, the Janneh Commission’s controversy underscores the challenges of ensuring justice and accountability in the post-Jammeh era. The PPP’s statement signals a broader push for democratic values and institutional integrity, with the nation watching closely for the government’s next steps.
