Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The former acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC), Jaja Cham, testified before the Local Government Commission of Enquiry on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, regarding the contentious procurement of waste collection trucks and dealings with Espace Motors. Cham’s testimony exposed lapses in financial management, procurement procedures, and internal oversight at the council.

Lead Counsel Patrick Gomez presented minutes from five KMC Contracts Committee meetings, three of which—dated January 29, 2019, December 31, 2018, and January 14, 2019—were admitted as evidence. The proceedings focused on whether Espace Motors was improperly engaged before the bidding process began.

Cham denied that KMC had contacted Espace Motors prior to the bidding process, stating, “No, that did not happen. I am not aware.” However, Gomez countered with documents and testimony from former procurement manager Fatoumatta Cham, which indicated the contrary. Minutes from a January 14, 2019, meeting further revealed that Espace Motors had been consulted early to ensure the trucks were suitable. Cham questioned the authenticity of his signature on these minutes and said he was unaware of who had authorized the engagement.

Loan Arrangements and Duty Waiver

Cham also faced scrutiny over the financing and importation of the trucks. He revealed that the loan for the trucks was facilitated by AGIB in partnership with QGroup after AGIB initially declined the loan request. The Lead Counsel pointed out discrepancies in this arrangement, noting that a different entity ultimately made the payments. Cham admitted the KMC had not involved the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) in the importation process, even though a duty waiver was expected. While previous waivers had been granted, he acknowledged that this was not guaranteed.

Gomez criticized the council’s failure to conduct feasibility studies for the loan repayment plan, which involved over 100 million dalasis of taxpayer money. Cham agreed with the assessment, admitting, “You are right on that point.”

Non-Compliant Procurement Practices

The inquiry further uncovered that KMC had awarded Espace Motors a subsequent contract to supply skip bins without following proper tender procedures. Cham described the decision as a mistake, explaining that the trucks were customized to KMC’s specifications.

Adding to the financial irregularities, the hearing revealed that more than 100 million dalasis had been withdrawn by Saihou Sabally, a council official, who was unable to account for half of the amount. Cham attributed his lack of oversight to his workload, stating, “I cannot ascertain that, to be honest with you.” Gomez highlighted Cham’s failure to enforce financial controls, pointing out that Sabally had operated without maintaining a cash book. Cham expressed surprise at this revelation.

Calls for Accountability

The hearing cast a spotlight on significant lapses in governance, with Lead Counsel Gomez stressing the irresponsibility of committing substantial public funds without proper oversight and research. Cham’s admissions have raised questions about systemic flaws in the KMC’s procurement and financial management processes, prompting calls for greater accountability and transparency in local government operations.

The inquiry is expected to continue in the coming weeks, as the commission seeks to unravel the full scope of financial mismanagement at the KMC.