By: Fatou Krubally
The National Assembly yesterday approved the opening of an investigation into former lead counsel Amie Bensouda over alleged conflict of interest, while also adopting an appendix to the Janneh Commission assets report containing additional recommendations and findings.
Lawmakers endorsed Recommendation One on page 155 of the report following a formal motion and seconding, with the proposal carried by a clear majority vote.
Central to the deliberations was a recommendation calling for investigations into individuals and institutions involved in the sale and disposal of assets identified by the Janneh Commission. The Assembly stressed the need to determine whether any irregularities occurred, noting that prosecution would follow if sufficient evidence is established.
While some members supported the move as necessary to strengthen accountability, others cautioned that the process should not exceed the original mandate of the committee.
Parliament also approved the inclusion of an appendix to the main report, consolidating additional recommendations from the Special Select Committee. The appendix includes company-related recommendations, further submissions by the committee chairperson, and a motion earlier adopted in plenary.
The Speaker of the National Assembly Hon. Fabakary Tombong Jatta, put the question to members, who responded with a majority vote in favour, formally integrating the appendix into the main report.
Lawmakers emphasised that the investigation into Amie Bensouda will be evidence-based and conducted within Parliament’s legal and procedural framework, in line with its oversight responsibilities.
With both the probe and the appendix adopted, the Assembly has finalised key components of the report, paving the way for follow-up actions on the findings and recommendations of the Janneh Commission.
The development is expected to inform the next phase of accountability measures regarding the sale and disposal of assets linked to the Commission’s investigations.
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