Nominees for the Gambia's Anti-Corruption Commission are awaiting swearing-in, six months after the National Assembly approved their appointments. This prolonged delay has prompted significant concern from civil society groups regarding the operational status and effectiveness of the key anti-graft body. Despite the National Assembly having given its endorsement to the selected individuals, their official induction into the commission has not yet occurred, leaving the vital institution in limbo. The process for establishing the Anti-Corruption Commission, a critical institution designed to bolster the fight against corruption in The Gambia, remains stalled without the formal swearing-in of its members, preventing it from commencing its essential work. The absence of a fully constituted commission raises questions about the commitment to transparency and accountability.
Nominees Awaiting Swearing-In
The National Assembly officially approved the nominations of Serign Mass Jallow as Chairperson, and Almami S Manga and Isatou J Nahra as Commissioners, on December 3, 2025. These individuals were put forward to lead the Anti-Corruption Commission, but their appointments are now part of the six-month delay in formalizing the body. The Anti-Corruption Bill, which established the framework for the commission and outlined its powers and responsibilities, was initially introduced before the National Assembly in 2018. After a period of legislative review and debate, it was subsequently enacted into law in 2025, paving the way for the selection and approval of the nominees whose swearing-in is now pending. The legislative journey shows the long-standing recognition of the need for such an institution.
Allegations Against Commissioner Nominee
Amidst the delays, allegations have emerged concerning one of the nominees. The Centre urged the president to proceed immediately with the appointment and swearing-in of Serign Mass Jallow and Isatou J Nahra. This recommendation stipulates that allegations concerning Almami S Manga should be independently investigated before his induction. Allegations surfaced in February 2026 concerning unauthorised monetary transfers linked to a disputed land transaction. These claims relate to Mr. Manga's tenure as a senior police prosecutor, raising questions about his suitability for a role demanding the highest ethical standards. Almami S Manga, in response to the allegations, has publicly denied any wrongdoing, maintaining that the transaction in question was a legitimate private and professional engagement, asserting his innocence against the claims.
Centre's Call for Action
The Edward Francis Small Centre for Rights and Justice (EFSCRJ) is calling on President Adama Barrow to expedite the process, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. The Centre stated, "The next constitutional and administrative step is for the president to formally appoint and swear in the approved nominees, thereby bringing the Commission into legal existence and enabling it to commence operations." The EFSCRJ noted the critical nature of this step, adding, "However, to date, this has not happened," showing that the swearing-in constitutes the formal establishment of the Anti-Corruption Commission as an operational entity. "Until this process is completed, the Gambia remains without the very institution that was created to prevent, investigate, and combat corruption," the EFSCRJ stressed, adding that this "prolonged delay raises legitimate concerns about the Government’s political will and commitment to combating corruption." The Centre asserted, "Given the nature of the allegations, public confidence in the Anti-Corruption Commission requires that all Commissioners meet the highest standards of integrity and credibility." They further warned, "The need for an effective Anti-Corruption Commission has never been greater. Allegations of corruption, abuse of office, and misconduct continue to emerge across public institutions, making the establishment of this body more critical than ever." The EFSCRJ's statement reflects a growing impatience within civil society regarding the stalled progress in institutionalizing anti-corruption efforts.
