Opposition leader and former Interior Minister, Mai Ahmed Fatty, has publicly endorsed the Motion laid before the National Assembly by Majority Leader Hon. Billay G. Tunkara, calling for a Parliamentary sub-committee to investigate the alleged improper disposal of assets recovered from former President Yahya Jammeh.
In a strongly worded public statement, Fatty praised the initiative as a “bold” and “reassuring” step toward transparency and public accountability in a matter of significant national interest. The assets in question—valued at over $300 million—were seized following the Janneh Commission’s findings on Jammeh-era corruption.
Fatty expressed satisfaction that the proposed investigation will not be conducted by a government-controlled body but by a bipartisan parliamentary sub-committee comprising both National People’s Party (NPP) and opposition MPs.
“This bold initiative with the concurrence of the caucus clearly demonstrates the robust commitment of the Government in ensuring propriety in this sensitive issue of fundamental public concern and interest,” Fatty said. “It is formidably reassuring that Parliament, not the Executive, will lead this sacred task.”
He emphasised the importance of adhering to due process, calling for a focus on facts and law, not speculation or emotion. Fatty urged the National Assembly to pass the Motion without hesitation and to ensure all hearings are guided by fairness, the rule of law, and constitutional principles—particularly Articles 17 and 24, which safeguard human dignity and the presumption of innocence.
In a further show of support for transparency, Fatty encouraged the National Assembly to hold its proceedings in public and to employ forensic experts where necessary to aid the investigation. He also issued a call to the Gambian media and civil society activists to act responsibly and avoid sensationalism or misinformation that could undermine the integrity of the process.
“The rights to personal dignity, including the right against intentional defamation and due observance of the presumption of innocence are entrenched by the Constitution,” Fatty noted.
Addressing the broader public, the opposition leader warned against forming prejudicial conclusions in the absence of conclusive evidence and reminded citizens of the provisions of Article 25(4) of the Constitution, which allows the Government to limit certain freedoms under specific circumstances.
Fatty concluded his statement by commending President Barrow for encouraging the NPP caucus to spearhead the Motion and for fostering bipartisan support around an issue of national significance.
“Let us, the public, now allow our constitutionally sanctioned Representatives do our job on our behalf. May Peace prevail in The Gambia and God Bless the Republic of The Gambia,” he concluded.
Fatty’s endorsement underscores the rare moment of unity in Gambian politics as both government and opposition close ranks around the need for full transparency and justice in the aftermath of the Jammeh regime.
