Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL) – In a significant development, at least four senior officials at the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital have been placed on administrative leave. This decision, reported by the Standard newspaper and confirmed by impeccable sources, is connected to an ongoing audit exercise at the hospital.

The officials placed on leave include Finance Director Lamin Ceesay, Operations Director Adama Mbye, Procurement Officer Nyima Jatta, and Deputy Chief Medical Director Abubacarr Jagne. The audit has been prompted by allegations of “massive corruption” made by the hospital’s board chairman, Dr. Adama Sallah. Notably, Dr. Sallah himself has reportedly been relieved of his position amidst these serious allegations.

Mounting accusations at the hospital suggest the discovery of significant financial impropriety and mismanagement, leading to the decision to place these officials on administrative leave. The removal of Dr. Sallah as board chairman underscores the gravity of the situation, as the allegations of corruption have cast a dark shadow over the hospital’s administration.

In response to the administrative changes, the deputy finance director has stepped in to oversee the hospital’s financial operations. Additionally, Dr. Sallah has been replaced by Dr. Sanyang as the new board chairman.

According to sources, the measures have been requested by the National Audit Office as part of standard practice. It is important to note that placing the officials on administrative leave does not imply their guilt in any offence at this stage. The audit aims to ensure transparency and accountability within the hospital’s operations.

As the audit progresses, the healthcare community and the public will be closely monitoring the outcomes, hoping for a resolution that ensures the integrity and trustworthiness of the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital.