Redacted from the Author Mustapha K. Darboe. Published By The Republic. Read Full article at: The assets of Gambia’s former dictator go for a song or therepublic.gm.
Yahya Jammeh, the former president of The Gambia, sought exile after his electoral defeat to Adama Barrow amid accusations of financial misconduct involving at least $362 million.
A state investigation has recovered some assets, but the recovery process has been marred by allegations of corruption. Reports indicate that certain sales were made to associates of government officials at undervalued prices.
To date, only $23,716,725 has been reclaimed from Jammeh’s substantial portfolio, which includes various real estate holdings and vehicles.
In 2018, Justice Minister Abubacarr Tambadou dismissed Augustus Prom, a court-appointed receiver, without notifying the court, which led to the appointment of Alpha Kapital Advisory LP for asset disposal.
Suspicion surrounds the selection process for Alpha Kapital, particularly due to claims of a personal connection between Tambadou and one of its partners, Alpha Barry.
Conflict has arisen between the justice ministry and Hon. Justice Saho-Ceesay regarding managing Jammeh’s assets, particularly concerning a request to release his land for redevelopment without adhering to proper legal procedures.
The court has reiterated the necessity of a forfeiture order before the government can utilize Jammeh’s properties, underscoring the importance of due process in such matters.
“This story was supported by Code for Africa, and funded by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ).”
