Africa-Press – Gambia. The National Assembly’s Special Select Committee on the Sale and Disposal of Assets Identified by the Janneh Commission has ordered the arrest of Sergeant Adama Jagne of the Gambia Armed Forces for contempt of the Assembly.
The decision was made on Wednesday following a formal application by Counsel Aji Saine Kah, who cited several constitutional and legal provisions empowering the Assembly to sanction individuals who obstruct or mislead its proceedings.
“Honourable Chair, pursuant to sections 109 and 110 of the Constitution of the Republic of The Gambia, the National Assembly Powers and Privileges Act, and orders 102 and 140 of the Standing Orders of the National Assembly, I am making an application for the Sergeant at Arms of this National Assembly to arrest Mr. Adama Jagne,” Counsel Saine stated.
She argued that Sergeant Jagne violated Section 12 and other provisions of the National Assembly Powers and Privileges Act by deliberately concealing information and attempting to tamper with witnesses, despite being given multiple opportunities to correct his statements and cooperate truthfully with the committee.
In response, Committee Chairperson Hon. Abdoulie Ceesay granted the application and issued a formal arrest order.
“Application granted, Counsel. I hereby order that the Sergeant at Arms of the National Assembly shall cause the arrest of Sergeant Adama Jagne and deliver him to the custody of the Gambia Armed Forces military police for investigation and detention pending his appearance before this committee,” Hon. Ceesay announced.
He further directed that the Attorney General and Minister of Justice be informed and take the necessary steps to initiate criminal proceedings against Sergeant Jagne for contempt of the National Assembly.
“All law enforcement and public officers are required to cooperate fully in the execution of this order; failure to comply shall constitute contempt of the National Assembly,” he emphasized.
Given the opportunity to respond, Sergeant Jagne stated that he did not view the committee’s decision as a witch hunt and would abide by whatever decision the committee deems appropriate.
Following the order, the Sergeant-at-Arms escorted Jagne out of the Assembly premises, and his mobile phone was confiscated in accordance with procedure.
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