Outgoing Gambia Football Federation (GFF) president Lamin Kaba Bajo rejected allegations of financial mismanagement Sunday during the manifesto launch for GFF presidential aspirant Colonel Musa M. Jammeh. Bajo, who has endorsed Colonel Musa M. Jammeh to succeed him in the election scheduled for August 29, 2026, asserted that his administration has never failed to account for public funds during its 12 years in office. "We are not thieves," Bajo stated, adding, "There is no instance where we have failed to account for a dollar or a dalasi." These remarks were made as part of a strong defense of his tenure and a clear endorsement of his preferred successor.
Bajo claimed his administration has passed every audit conducted during its 12 years in office and has ensured accountability through annual general meetings. "For 12 years, we have ensured that we are accountable to our stakeholders through annual general meetings where we present audited financial statements and activity reports," Bajo said. He added, "We have never missed it," and confirmed, "There is no occasion where the General Assembly disapproved or rejected the reports." Bajo also noted, "There is no instance that FIFA or the General Assembly said we could not account for a dollar or a dalasi." This steadfast commitment to transparency, he argued, shows the integrity of his leadership.
Defending Financial Accountability
Lamin Kaba Bajo dismissed criticism circulating on social media as baseless and lacking merit. He emphasized that such allegations were unfounded and did not reflect the rigorous financial oversight maintained by the GFF under his guidance. Bajo stated his administration consistently complied with the Gambia Football Federation’s (GFF) financial reporting requirements. For 12 years, the federation ensured accountability to stakeholders through annual general meetings where audited financial statements and activity reports were presented. This consistent practice, Bajo explained, allowed for open scrutiny and discussion of the federation's financial health. Bajo acknowledged that audit observations can arise during financial reviews, a normal part of any full financial examination, but none of these observations involved missing funds. He reiterated that all funds were meticulously accounted for, dispelling any notions of impropriety.
The federation held annual general meetings every year, and during these gatherings, delegates received audited financial statements and activity reports. This process ensured that all stakeholders were fully informed about the GFF's financial standing and operational activities. Audited financial statements are distributed to delegates at least 14 days before each annual general meeting, in line with the federation’s rules. This advance distribution provides ample time for delegates to review the documents thoroughly before discussions and approvals. The GFF undergoes two separate financial audits every year. One audit is conducted by international auditors appointed by FIFA, ensuring adherence to global best practices and standards. The other audit is carried out by external auditors appointed by the GFF General Assembly, providing an additional layer of independent oversight from within the national football community.
The federation also submits financial reports to the National Sports Council after every international match. These reports are audited by the National Audit Office, providing an additional layer of scrutiny over the GFF's financial activities. This multi-layered audit structure, Bajo contended, leaves no room for financial mismanagement and demonstrates the administration's unwavering commitment to fiscal responsibility.
Endorsement and Continuity
Lamin Kaba Bajo reaffirmed his extensive support for Colonel Musa M. Jammeh, describing him as an experienced football administrator and a capable leader. Bajo stated that the decision to endorse Jammeh was a collective one, resulting from six months of consultation with various stakeholders within the football community. This consultative process, he explained, ensured that the endorsement was not a personal decision but one backed by broad consensus. Colonel Musa M. Jammeh founded Falcons Football Club, which now competes in the country’s top division, a testament to his deep involvement and success in Gambian football. Bajo expressed confidence that Jammeh and his campaign team, known as Team Falcons, would continue the work of the outgoing administration, building upon the foundations laid over the past 12 years. Bajo urged delegates to support the continuity of the current administration’s programmes, emphasizing the importance of maintaining trajectory and avoiding disruptions to the progress achieved.
Past Criticisms and Unity
Lamin Kaba Bajo recalled facing similar criticism regarding his military background when he first sought election in 2014. At that time, some members of the football community questioned his suitability for the role due to his previous career, much like some criticisms currently leveled against Colonel Musa M. Jammeh. Bajo called on members of the football community to remain united, emphasizing the importance of solidarity moving forward. He stressed that a cohesive environment is essential for the continued development of football in Gambia, urging stakeholders to put aside differences for the collective good of the sport. He noted that unity and shared vision are critical for the advancement of Gambian football on both national and international stages.