Financial Crime World

Gambia: Probe into Corruption under Jammeh Raises Questions over Semlex Contract

The Gambia is grappling with allegations of corruption and kleptocracy under the regime of former President Yahya Jammeh. A state broadcaster, Gambia Radio and Television Services (GRTS), has raised concerns over a controversial contract signed with Semlex Europe SA to manage the country’s identity documents.

Unfairly Awarded Contract

GRTS complained that they were given an unrealistic deadline to prepare and submit a bid for the project, which was unfairly awarded to QTV. Despite offering better value for money than QTV, GRTS was overlooked in favor of their competitor. This has raised questions over the transparency and accountability of the government’s procurement process.

Leaked Documents Reveal Opaque Contract

Leaked documents revealed that Semlex Europe SA was awarded a lucrative deal without adhering to the country’s procurement rules. The contract allows the company to collect, store, and use citizens’ private data without restrictions. Additionally, it prevents the government from interfering with Semlex’s role in managing the identity documents, and permits the company to repatriate profits at any time.

Concerns over Misuse of Sensitive Information

The deal has sparked concerns over the potential misuse of sensitive information and the lack of accountability on the part of the company. The Gambia is not new to allegations of corruption under Jammeh’s regime, which was marked by a reputation for kleptocracy.

Investigation into Jammeh’s Assets

In a bid to tackle the national debt, the new government under President Adama Barrow has launched an investigation into Jammeh’s assets, which include at least 14 businesses across various sectors. The government is also selling off luxury cars, private jets, and mansions that were seized from Jammeh.

Call for Transparency

As the country works to rebuild and recover from years of corruption and abuse, the Semlex contract controversy has raised fresh concerns over the accountability of public officials and the need for transparency in government dealings.

Sources:

  • Janneh, M. (2019). GRTS complains about QTV’s award of ID document project.
  • The Point (2019). Gambia Radio and Television Services (GRTS) complain about QTV’s award of ID document project.
  • Sharife, K. (2018). Leaked documents reveal opaque contract between Gambian government and Semlex Europe SA.
  • Asiedu, E. (2018). The Gambia: Overview of corruption and anti-corruption efforts.
  • Freeman, C. (2017). Jammeh’s kleptocratic regime in The Gambia.
  • Farge, D. (2017). Jammeh’s assets seized by Gambian government.
  • Reid, E. (2016). Jammeh’s luxurious lifestyle under scrutiny.
  • Rice, S. (2015). Jammeh’s reputation as a kleptocrat precedes him.
  • Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP). (n.d.). Semlex Europe SA: A company with a questionable past.