Gambiaj.com – (Banjul, the Gambia)- Dr. Adama Sallah, owner of Lantoro Hospital, has revealed before the Special Select Committee on Jammeh’s Assets that his property, confiscated during former President Yahya Jammeh’s regime, has now been sold without his consent or compensation, despite following all legal procedures to reclaim it.
During his testimony, Dr. Sallah described the ordeal of losing his properties, which he had legally acquired prior to their forceful seizure by the former president. He emphasized that, even after the change in government, the process meant to return seized assets to rightful owners was ignored, and his properties are being sold to third parties.
Sallah recounted how he had complied fully with all requirements to reclaim his assets, submitting the necessary documents and evidence with the authorities.
However, despite these efforts, the properties were sold, leaving him frustrated and questioning the effectiveness of the legal processes established to protect citizens from such losses.
The doctor also highlighted the broader impact of Jammeh’s land seizures, noting that other property owners suffered similar fates. Many saw their homes demolished, lands sold, or assets reallocated without notification or compensation, causing severe financial and psychological distress.
Sallah’s testimony pointed to systemic issues in how the commission and local authorities handled seized properties. He stated that the investigation into ex-President Jammeh’s assets was grossly inadequate, failing to summon key witnesses or verify the legitimacy of property claims.
“The commission was supposed to look into whether the properties attributed to Jammeh were lawfully acquired,” Sallah said, “but the bulk of what is claimed as his belonged to other people. Many of us were never called to give evidence.”
The revelations have sparked questions about accountability under the current government and the protection of citizens’ property rights.
Dr. Sallah concluded his testimony by urging authorities to take immediate action to rectify these injustices and ensure that rightful owners are adequately compensated for losses incurred during Jammeh’s regime.
The Special Select Committee is expected to review Sallah’s submission, alongside documentation he provided, to determine next steps in reclaiming and protecting assets wrongfully taken during the previous administration.
