By: Fatou Krubally
The Minority Leader, Hon. Alhagie S. Darboe has called on the government to fully operationalize the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), warning that months of delay could undermine the country’s fight against corruption.
Hon. Darboe who is also the Member of Parliament for Brikama South, was speaking during the debate on the 2026 State of the Nation Address (SoNA) at the National Assembly.
He said that although the legal framework for the commission was passed in 2023, the body remained largely inactive, with only one member appointed months after confirmation by the National Assembly in December 2025. “The implementation is becoming a symbol of intent rather than an instrument of change,” he said.
Darboe urged the government to demonstrate its commitment to accountability and transparency, describing the commission as a critical tool in the national effort to combat corruption. “At this juncture, I am making a clarion call for the commission to be fully operational,” he said.
The Minority Leader also expressed concern over delays in reviewing the Local Government Act, which he said was necessary for meaningful reforms at the local level. “There cannot be any meaningful development or changes in the local government sector without reviewing the Act,” he noted, adding that assurances given to parliament have yet to yield tangible results.
Darboe further criticized the government for failing to appoint a paramount chief, a traditional authority position, which has remained vacant since December. He warned that continued inaction could amount to a violation of the law. “As parliamentarians, we cannot sit and watch and allow the President to flout our law,” he said, adding that he would consider moving a motion if the appointment is not made.
The Minority Leader highlighted the need for clarity on government infrastructure commitments, including road construction projects mentioned in the president’s address, and called for timely implementation to ensure that promises translate into real benefits for communities.
Concluding his contribution, Darboe stressed that government statements and reports must be matched by action. “Institutions meant to promote accountability and governance must be made fully functional without delay,” he said, emphasizing that progress in law, oversight, and infrastructure is key to public trust and national development.
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