Gambian youths urges gov't to expedite setting up an anti-corruption commission
Banjul, Gambia (PANA) - National Youth Parliament - The Gambia has calls on the government of President Adama Barrow to expedite the process of setting up an anti-corruption commission
A statement signed by Fatou M. Jawo, outgoing Deputy Speaker, National Youth Parliament - The Gambia and made available to PANA on Wednesday said: “As the body representing the voice of young people in The Gambia, we are deeply concerned and disturbed by allegations of endemic bribery and corruption in the public sector."
It said corruption has unimaginable ramifications on the lives of people especially women and young people, adding that this evil wreaks havoc on the economy.
The statement also pointed out that corruption allegations in the public sector are rife and the culture of impunity still exists.
The statement stated that top public officials at the Ministry of Fisheries who are accused of receiving payments of bribery from a Chinese-owned fish meal company are a case in point.
It said to their knowledge, this is not the first time that top public officials are alleged of involving in high level corruption.
"The latest which is still fresh on our minds is the Minister of Health's allegation against his staff regarding deliberate attempts to mismanage Covid-19 funds. To date, no proper investigation has been launched to probe into those allegations to the surprise of many Gambians; thus, setting a dangerous precedent,” the statement pointed out.
“Public officials must work only in the interest of the people. We cannot continue giving smooth and free ride to corrupt public officials. Public officials who betray the trust of the people from whom they derive their mandates and for whose interest they are to serve must be held accountable for their actions and inactions," the statement said.
-0- PANA MSS/MA 9Dec2020
