Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The National Assembly’s Joint Committee on Finance, Public Accounts, and Public Enterprises has agreed to hold a private hearing with The Gambia’s Central Bank Governor, Buah Saidy, allowing him to present findings on the unfolding petroleum import controversy away from the public eye. The decision, announced on Monday, came after the Central Bank requested a closed session, citing concerns over potential risks associated with publicly disclosing sensitive information.
The inquiry centers around 36,953 metric tons of petroleum products, valued at approximately $30 million, whose import and distribution in The Gambia are under scrutiny. During the proceedings, Governor Saidy stressed the importance of confidentiality, warning that a public hearing might lead to unintended consequences and disrupt the ongoing investigation. The Central Bank has been probing three companies suspected of importing Russian fuel without paying taxes, allegedly facilitated through accounts opened at local commercial banks.
Co-Chair of the Joint Committee, Alagie S. Darboe, addressed reporters at the National Assembly, explaining the decision. “The committee has reviewed the merits of the Central Bank’s request for a closed-door session,” he said. “We apologize to the media for any inconvenience caused, as we would have informed you earlier if we had received the request in writing.” Darboe clarified that the request for confidentiality had been made verbally by Governor Saidy prior to the session.
This closed-door approach has sparked frustration among journalists, who expressed disappointment over yet another high-profile case held away from public scrutiny. The Joint Committee initially announced the session as an open inquiry, raising concerns among members of the press about transparency. This instance marks the second time the committee has opted to restrict access to information surrounding the petroleum import saga.
The closed session underscores the challenges faced by Gambian institutions as they navigate complex economic and regulatory issues, with Governor Saidy expected to shed light on the Central Bank’s investigative findings in confidence with committee members.
