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Gambia’s Corruption Fight Hampered by Lack of Cooperation and Ineffective Systems

Banjul, The Gambia - Despite its efforts to establish anti-corruption agencies and laws, The Gambia continues to struggle with a lack of inter-departmental and inter-ministerial cooperation, poor information sharing, and an ineffective ICT system, hindering its fight against corruption.

Challenges in Implementing Anti-Corruption Efforts

The country has set up various anti-corruption bodies, including the Gambia Financial Intelligence Unit (GFIU), the Gambia Public Service Commission (GPSC), the Gambia Public Procurement Authority (GPPA), and the Assets Recovery and Management Corporation (AMRC). However, the Gambia Anti-Corruption Commission Act, passed in 2012, has yet to be implemented, and the country’s anti-corruption efforts are hindered by poor implementation and application of recommendations and findings by commissions of inquiry.

Lack of Transparency in Political Party Financing

The Constitution of The Gambia provides for transparency in political party financing, but in practice, the rules are flawed and poorly enforced. Political parties are required to disclose revenue, sources of revenue, and assets, as well as publish annual audited financial statements. However, there is little transparency regarding how these funds are used.

Civil Society Engagement and Public Debate

Civil society has increased its engagement in governance issues due to corruption, with greater reporting on corruption cases and public debates hosted by independent media outlets. However, there are few measures promoting periodic review and reporting on corruption in the public administration.

Judicial System Challenges

The country’s judicial system also faces challenges, with weaknesses apparent in terms of the independence of the Department of Public Prosecutions, which operates under the remit of the Attorney General and the Minister of Justice. The President is able to personally appoint the Chief Prosecutor at the Attorney General’s office, a selection process that is not subject to public review.

Financial Infrastructure and Beneficial Ownership Registration

The Gambia has a partial beneficial ownership registration and disclosure system in place, but this information is generally not available online. Registered companies are required to publish annual accounts and audited accounts in local newspapers and file a copy with the Corporate Division of the Ministry of Justice. However, enforcement of rules prohibiting crimes laid down under the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) is not fully respected.

Recovery of Assets Acquired Through Fraud

The country’s inability to recover assets acquired through fraud from former and current public officials, individuals, and groups mentioned in the 2018 Janneh Commission report is also a concern. The commission seized numerous properties believed to have been fraudulently obtained by the former President, his close associates, and family members.

Conclusion

In conclusion, despite its efforts to establish anti-corruption agencies and laws, The Gambia’s fight against corruption remains hindered by lack of cooperation, poor information sharing, and ineffective systems. It is essential that the country addresses these challenges to effectively combat corruption and promote transparency and accountability in public administration.