A Gambian contractor, Lamin Y.F.A. Mboge, has admitted to the Local Government Commission of Inquiry that he paid a bribe to officials of the Kuntaur Area Council after securing a government contract. Mboge, the proprietor of Mbulmano Construction, claimed that council officials demanded a bribe of 150,000 dalasi in relation to a borehole drilling contract, which he negotiated down to 100,000 dalasi. The Commission of Inquiry was established to investigate the financial and administrative operations of local councils, with the aim of improving transparency and accountability.
Lamin Jabang, the Alkalo of Sanyang in The Gambia, has discussed the challenges and successes of his leadership since taking office in 2022. He highlighted land disputes, youth unemployment, and ongoing development projects in the community. Despite these issues, Jabang has made strides in community development, including the establishment of a nursing school, a community-owned bank, and a local health centre.
The Brikama Area Council has strongly objected to the demolition of vendor stalls near the Brikama Magistrates' Court by West Coast Region Governor Ousman Bojang. The council alleges that the governor attempted to use police force to execute the action, despite prior consultations with authorities confirming the stalls complied with regulations. The situation has sparked tension between the council and the governor, but a stakeholder meeting was held to restore relationships and promote collaboration in regional development.