Africa-Press – Gambia. Chairman of the Mansakonko Area Council, Landing B. Sanneh, on Tuesday appeared again before the Local Government Commission of Inquiry, where he gave testimony regarding an overpayment made to Nema-Su Enterprise—a company contracted to supply food items to the council during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Chairman Sanneh clarified that he had no involvement in awarding the contract to Nema-Su, explaining that contract awards fall under the responsibility of the council’s Contracts Committee. He said that although he was aware of the contract, he was not involved in its procurement process and did not sign the check used to pay the contractor.
Lead Counsel Patrick Gomez acknowledged Sanneh’s statement, saying he had no reason to doubt the chairman’s account, as there was no evidence contradicting his claim.
Chairman Sanneh explained that while he was not directly involved, he convened a meeting out of concern after the commission raised the issue. Despite efforts to clarify the matter, including engaging the supplier, no clear explanation could be given for the payment discrepancy.
“I was not in the center for the whole thing, but out of concern because of the commission, I called for a meeting. The actors and the supplier were unable to connect the difference and what caused it,” Chairman Sanneh told the commission.
Chairman Sanneh explained that identifying the discrepancy has been challenging, even after engaging the supplier. He noted that the difference between the amount paid and the products delivered remains unresolved, stating, “We are finding it very difficult to come to a conclusion.”
Counsel Gomez informed Chairman Sanneh that, based on the available evidence, it appeared he was not involved in the transaction—unless new information emerges in the future.
The counsel then asked the chairman whether he believed it was normal for such a situation to occur, where neither council officials nor the supplier could recall the details of the transaction. “Do you think that is normal?” he asked.
Chairman Sanneh responded that the situation was indeed abnormal and highly unusual, describing it as a significant lapse.
He further stated that after consulting with his former Chief Executive Officer and others involved, none of the parties—including the supplier—were able to provide any substantial information. He added that they are struggling to determine what actually transpired.
Counsel Gomez pressed further, stating, “Now, what do you think, because as chairman, you know there is no room for error to pay Mr. Dibba more than he supplied? Without them giving us an explanation, this is fraud.”
Chairman Sanneh stated that he would not dispute the characterization of the act as fraudulent, unless proven otherwise.
He added that further investigation is needed to determine exactly what transpired.
Counsel Gomez informed him that, from the legal standpoint of the Commission, their objective is to persuade the commissioners that the act constitutes fraud.
Chairman Sanneh responded, “Yes, based on the information available as of now, I wouldn’t blame you if you do so.”
Counsel Gomez commended Chairman Sanneh, acknowledging his reputation as a good leader and commending his honesty and candor before the commission.
He further informed Chairman Sanneh that he would be granted one week to submit any evidence that might refute the claims concerning the matter under investigation.
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