Africa-Press – Gambia. The Executive Director of the Edward Francis Small Centre for Rights and Justice (EFSCRJ), Madi Jobarteh has challenged Banjul Mayor Rohey Malick Lowe to establish a commission of inquiry if she believes allegations against her administration are false or malicious.
In a statement issued out on Thursday, Mr. Jobarteh said transparency rather than legal action would be the most appropriate response to the on-going dispute within the Banjul City Council (BCC).
“The most powerful response is not a lawyer’s letter but transparency,” he said, urging the mayor to invite independent auditors, open procurement files, seek oversight from the Ministry of Local Government, and convene a public council session to address the concerns.
According to him, the dispute between Mayor Lowe and Councillor Fallou Gallas Ceesay should not be treated as a personal quarrel but as a significant test of transparency and democratic governance in the capital.
Mr. Jobarteh expressed concern over reports that the mayor has threatened legal action against a fellow council member over public statements relating to council projects. He argued that when disagreements arose over the management of public resources, democratic practice required rebuttal, disclosure, and investigation rather than litigation.
“Councillors are not spectators; they are elected representatives with oversight responsibilities,” he said, adding that councillors have both the right and duty to raise concerns about the management of public projects and funds.
He noted that allegations relating to public resources demanded heightened scrutiny; stressing that public officials must be open to criticism and accountability.
The EFSCRJ Executive Director further stated that an independent investigation could either vindicate the mayor or identify weaknesses requiring corrective action, noting that in either scenario, the people of Banjul would benefit.
He warned that resorting to legal threats could create a chilling effect within the council, potentially discouraging elected officials from questioning executive decisions.
Mr. Jobarteh also acknowledged that Deputy Mayor Abdou Azziz Gaye has publicly rejected the allegations raised by Councillor Gallas, describing them as unfounded and misleading.
He advised Councillor Gallas to ensure that all claims were supported by evidence and responsibly communicated, emphasising that public interest speech carries corresponding responsibility.
“Mayor Lowe has an opportunity to strengthen her leadership and the credibility of the Banjul City Council. Withdrawing legal threats and embracing a transparent inquiry would demonstrate confidence, not weakness,” Madi said, adding that accountability should not be mistaken for defamation.
