Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The Minister for Lands, Regional Government and Religious Affairs has confirmed to the National Assembly that victims of the recent demolitions in the Salaji layout will not receive any compensation.

During a Question and Answer session on Wednesday, Honourable Ahmat Bah explained that the affected households, many of whom were left homeless, had built structures on state land without proper ownership and had obtained Development Permits that were not issued following due process.

“Even though the government is interested in housing citizens, I will not contemplate compensating them one dime. They did not own the land and did not obtain the Development Permit through the correct procedures,” the Minister said.

Despite this, many victims claim that proper documentation was issued by the relevant authorities, allowing them to construct their homes legally. They argue that the demolitions, which left women and children homeless, were unjust and disrupted their livelihoods.

The Minister emphasized that notices to vacate were repeatedly issued and deliberately ignored, necessitating the demolitions. He also noted that while the government is taking steps to address staff irregularities in issuing permits, it will not provide housing or compensation to those occupying land illegally.

Salaji Proper and Salaji Extension, initiated in 2003 and 2007 respectively, were officially designated for residential purposes with approved social and public spaces, which some residents encroached upon. The Minister stressed that government action was aimed at protecting public interest and enforcing the law.