The Gambian National Assembly has announced the formation of a committee to investigate the sale of assets linked to former President Yahya Jammeh.

The six-member committee is chaired by Abdoulie Ceesay, the member for Old Yundum. Madi Ceesay, representing Serrekunda West, serves as vice-chairperson. Other members include Omar Jammeh (Janjanbureh), Suwaibou Touray (Wuli East), Sheriff Sarr (Jeshwang), and nominated member Kebba Lang Fofana.

The committee is tasked with conducting a thorough inquiry into the sale of the former president’s assets and is expected to present its findings and recommendations to the Assembly.

The move follows days of street protests, which pressured the government into disclosing the names of individuals who had purchased the assets.

However, the selection of the committee members has sparked criticism from several parliamentarians, who raised concerns about the lack of gender balance.

Alhagie Babou Ceesay, the member for Sabach Sanjal, said: “Gender representation is important. We must have women included in the committee. I don’t think this is fair, and I reject and dismiss this selection.”

Almameh Gibba, the member for Kansala, also questioned the composition of the committee, suggesting that Suwaibou Touray should chair the panel. “We need seriousness in this matter and the right people for the job. If we are advocating for fairness, a female representative should be on the list,” he said.

Bakary Badjie, member for Foni Bintang, voiced strong opposition to the committee’s formation. “I am against this selection today, tomorrow, and forever,” he declared. “If you know you are always out of the country, let us know so we can replace you.”

He also supported the proposal for Suwaibou Touray to chair the committee.

Fatou Cham, member for Sanimentereng, expressed concern over the absence of female representation on the panel.

The committee’s formation comes amid growing public scrutiny over the fate of assets seized from Mr Jammeh, who ruled The Gambia for over two decades before being ousted in 2017.

By Adama Makasuba