By: Fatou Krubally
The former chairman of the Janneh Commission of Inquiry, Surahata Janneh, testified Tuesday before the Special Select Committee investigating the sale and disposal of assets belonging to former President Yahya Jammeh.
Janneh made it clear that the commission did not have custody or control over Jammeh’s frozen assets, which were instead handed over to various government agencies.
During his testimony, Janneh emphasized the commission’s role as an investigative body rather than a custodian of seized assets. He pointed out that the assets in question had been placed under the care of institutions such as the Gambia Livestock Marketing Agency and the Registry General, following court orders aimed at preserving them.
“The commission’s mandate was to conduct a full and impartial investigation into the matter assigned by the President, and to submit a written report on its findings,” Janneh explained. “However, the custody and management of the frozen assets were entrusted to relevant government institutions, not to the Janneh Commission.”
Janneh further detailed that the commission’s authority and terms of reference are derived from the constitution, the Commissions of Inquiry Act, and the specific legal notices that establish it. He stressed that the Constitution takes precedence over all other laws and guidelines governing the commission’s operations.
When questioned about the commission’s relationship with agencies responsible for the assets, Janneh said there was no direct involvement or interaction. He clarified that the commission focused on investigation and reporting, while asset management and custody fell under the jurisdiction of government bodies designated by court order.
The Special Select Committee’s inquiry is part of broader efforts to ensure transparency and accountability in the handling of assets linked to the former President Jammeh. Janneh’s testimony helps clarify the commission’s scope and highlights the separation between investigative duties and asset management.
As the investigation continues, the committee aims to gather more information about the procedures surrounding the frozen assets and their eventual disposition. Janneh’s detailed legal explanations underscore the complex framework within which the commission operated.