Fresh allegations of corruption have surfaced against former Chief of Defence Staff Lieutenant General Mamat O. A. Cham following his resignation from the Gambia Armed Forces, intensifying calls for an independent investigation into the military’s leadership and management of public assets.

President Adama Barrow on Friday accepted Cham’s resignation after what the Presidency described as “numerous allegations of misconduct and abuse of office inconsistent with the Office of Chief of Defence Staff.”

The latest allegations, detailed in a report circulating online and attributed to the Open Gambia Platform, focus on claims that Cham improperly acquired a boat confiscated from suspected smugglers and later sold through the Gambia Navy, which operated under his command.

According to the report, an audio recording circulating on social media allegedly captures the former CDS discussing the purchase of the vessel.

Critics argue that the transaction may have created a conflict of interest and are calling for investigators to determine whether proper government procedures for disposing of public assets were followed.

The report also raises questions about the valuation of the boat, the process through which it was sold, and whether all relevant approvals were obtained before the transaction took place.

In addition, allegations made by former military officer Sergeant Modou Saine have resurfaced, including claims that a tractor allegedly intended for the Gambia Armed Forces was diverted for private use.

The allegations have not been independently verified, and no official findings have yet been released by investigators.

Further questions have also been raised regarding the membership of Cham’s wife in the Gambia Armed Forces Credit Union, with critics calling for greater transparency over eligibility requirements and access to financial services within military institutions.

The Open Gambia Platform has urged authorities to expand any investigation beyond the former CDS, calling for scrutiny of other senior security officials.

The group argues that Cham’s resignation should mark the beginning, rather than the end, of efforts to strengthen accountability within the country’s security sector.

The government has not publicly commented on the specific allegations. However, in his resignation letter, Cham reportedly assured President Barrow of his willingness to cooperate with any future investigations into the claims made against him.

The allegations come at a sensitive time for the Gambia Armed Forces as Major General Ousman Gomez assumes the role of Acting Chief of Defence Staff following Cham’s departure.

Observers say any formal investigation will be closely watched as a test of the government’s commitment to transparency, accountability and the rule of law within the country’s security institutions.