Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The Gambia’s National Assembly on Tuesday approved a motion to establish a Special Select Committee to investigate the sale and disposal of assets belonging to former President Yahya Jammeh. These assets, identified by the Janneh Commission as unlawfully acquired, have long been a source of public concern due to the lack of transparency surrounding their management.

Majority Leader Hon. Billay G. Tunkara of Kantora introduced the motion during the Assembly’s First Extraordinary Session of 2025, invoking constitutional powers under Section 109(2) and Standing Order 95(5). The motion calls for a thorough investigation into the valuation, sale, and proceeds of Jammeh’s assets, as well as the identities of the buyers.

The debate that ensued was dynamic, highlighting both consensus and divergence among lawmakers. The member for Nianija opened the discussion, followed by nominated member Kebba Lang (NPP), independent member Omar Ceesay of Janjanbureh, and others who engaged deeply with the motion’s implications.

Several members suggested amendments aimed at strengthening the committee’s mandate. The Member for Upper Nuimi proposed extending the committee’s deadline from 120 to 180 days and recommended that any discrepancies uncovered be reported to the Inspector General of Police for immediate action.

He also stressed that powers granted to the Clerk should be exercised in consultation with the committee. The proposal was supported by the Member for Jarra Central.

The member for Sannimentereng underscored the need for public transparency, emphasizing that the committee should identify those who purchased Jammeh’s assets. “These are public assets, not Jammeh’s anymore,” he declared, urging that committee members be strategically selected and genuinely committed to the process.

Speaker Jatta affirmed that the selection of committee members would follow standing orders, despite criticism stemming from his previous affiliation with Jammeh’s regime.

Adding to the gravity of the debate, the Member for Lower Baddibu observed, “Gambians have already lost confidence in the Parliament, and that’s the painful truth.”

Deputy Speaker Seedy Njie echoed concerns about potential politicization of the investigation. He urged committee members to set aside personal and party agendas in favor of impartiality and justice.

Striking a chord with the public, Hon. Tuma Njie of Banjul South lauded the efforts of Gambian youth. “I want to thank the GALA Youths for their remarkable efforts. They have shown more honor and integrity than us,” he said, quoting a young protester: “Justice cannot be achieved if criminals are allowed to rule, and if we continue to permit them to do so.”

“For eight years, we as NAM members have failed to accomplish what the youth have achieved,” he continued. “Despite our efforts, we have fallen short, even as mothers and youths cried over the injustice and hardship. But from now on, the tide is turning. Some will also face tears—not just in sorrow, but in the pursuit of justice and change.”

“Let this be a wake-up call. The voices of the youth are powerful and necessary for real progress. We must support and stand with them to build a better future,” Njie concluded, receiving audible support from fellow MPs.

However, not all contributions struck a unifying tone. Hon. Alagie Babou Ceesay of Sabach Sanjal provoked outrage after referring to protesting youths as “cockroaches and mice,” a remark that drew swift condemnation from both the public and fellow parliamentarians.

According to the motion, the Special Select Committee will investigate how the former president’s assets were evaluated, sold, and managed. It will have the authority to summon individuals, inspect documents, and recommend legal or administrative action. The committee is expected to submit its report within 120 days, unless the Assembly approves an extension.