Saihou Jawara, chairman of Kuntaur Area Council, has returned from his United States trip amid absconding allegations.

Mr Jawara was among scores of mayors who were invited to attend the World Mayors Conference in the United States of America in September 2023. His prolonged stay has triggered his council to dismiss him from his position after issuing a 24-hour ultimatum to him.

Reacting to his over staying in the United States, Jawara said he did it in the best interest of his people in order to secure developmental projects for them.

“I stayed because the world mayors has lots of programmes l, and their last programme was in January which was one of the most important ones because it’s where you have mayors and investors come in to attend,” Jawara said.

He scoffed at the absconding allegations while adding that he would never abscond in his life.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba