Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The Attorney General and Minister of Justice of The Gambia has announced an open call for applications to fill the positions of Chairperson and Members of the Gambia Anti-Corruption Commission. This move, in accordance with Section 3(5) of the Gambia Anti-Corruption Act, 2023, comes after prolonged criticism over delays in implementing the law.

The Anti-Corruption Act, signed into law on January 30, 2024, established the Gambia Anti-Corruption Commission as a corporate body tasked with combating corruption, promoting transparency, and fostering accountability in public and private sectors. However, despite the Act’s passage, President Adama Barrow’s failure to appoint commissioners throughout the year has drawn sharp rebukes from political opponents and civil society.

Mounting Criticism Over Inaction

The delay has fueled suspicions of complacency in addressing corruption. Opposition leader Ousainou Darboe of the United Democratic Party (UDP) has been among the most vocal critics, accusing the Barrow administration of protecting individuals involved in corrupt practices.

Speaking at the UDP diaspora convention in Spain last August, Darboe stated, “The Anti-Corruption Act, which was assented to by the president since January 30, 2024, is not being implemented because the president has failed to appoint commissioners so they can begin their work.” He characterized the delay as emblematic of Barrow’s broader reluctance to address corruption.

Civil society organizations have echoed these concerns, warning that the absence of enforcement mechanisms undermines public trust and allows corruption to persist unchecked.

Structure and Mandate of the Commission

The Commission will comprise a chairperson and two members, appointed by the President following consultation with the Public Service Commission and approval by the National Assembly. The Commission will operate independently, with the authority to engage in contracts, manage assets, and undertake legal action to fulfill its mandate.

Key responsibilities of the Commission include formulating and overseeing anti-corruption policies, investigating complaints, and promoting ethical conduct across all sectors. Members are expected to serve full-time and will be barred from holding other public or private sector roles during their tenure.

Eligibility and Terms of Service

Candidates must demonstrate integrity, competence, and sound judgment, along with at least ten years of experience in fields such as ethics, law, public administration, economics, or auditing. Certain individuals, including active political party members, undischarged bankrupts, and those with felony convictions, are ineligible to serve.

The chairperson will serve a five-year term, while other members will serve four-year terms. Both roles allow for one reappointment.

A Call to Action

This call for applications represents a critical opportunity for qualified Gambians to contribute to the fight against corruption and restore faith in the country’s governance systems. Applicants are urged to seize this moment to help shape The Gambia’s future as a nation committed to integrity and accountability.

The announcement, while welcomed by many, comes against the backdrop of heightened public scrutiny. As the government begins the process of constituting the Commission, all eyes will remain on President Barrow’s administration to demonstrate its commitment to combating corruption in tangible and decisive ways.