The committee, which had been given a three-month timeline to complete its work, failed to meet the deadline, prompting strong reactions from lawmakers as it marked the second extension since the task began.
The inquiry launched to investigate alleged irregularities in the procurement and distribution of petroleum products has been closely watched by the public and stakeholders.
However, during yesterday’s plenary session, the committee co-chair Lamin J. Sanyang, raised a motion informing the Assembly that it needed more time to complete its findings, citing the complexity of the investigation and the volume of documents to review.
“In execution of this mandate, the joint Committee convened its inaugural meeting in 2024, during which it established terms of reference and identified key witnesses to be summoned. The list of witnesses include the mover of the motion – representative of Apogee FZC, Grete Energy and Ultimate Baged Logistics, 3 financial intelligence, and 4 registrar of companies,” he explained.
The appeal for an extension sparked a fierce debate among members of parliament, with some lawmakers expressing frustration over the appeal, while blaming the committee for not communicating on time for extension.
Hon. Fatoumatta Touma Njai spoke against the motion, stating that a motion that has been agreed by the Speaker should be a matter of urgency, while disapproving the co-chair's statement for extension.
She claimed that as member the committee, they were not aware of his (chair’s) statement to move a motion for extension rather than laying a report. Therefore, she urged for it to be referred back to the committee.
The lawmaker for Nianija, Hon. Amadou Camara, emphasised that the committee should continue its investigation even though the Assembly is adjourned and shall not be discharged unless by order of the Assembly or on the dissolution of the Assembly.
He argued that the motion was not necessary as long as the investigation is before the committee. “Investigate until whenever you are done, you come to the plenary.”
Hon. Kebba Lang Fofana seconded the motion with emphasis that parliamentary communication must be clear to avoid public misconception since everyone was waiting for a report while a statement of appeal was tabled. He accordingly emphasised the importance of thoroughness and accuracy in such a high stake investigation.
“So as a member of the committee, we are apologising to the entire membership and the public,” he said, adding great work had been done but more time is needed right now to complete the report.
Subsequently, the Assembly voted to grant the committee an extension until the next season, with a clear mandate to present its findings by the new deadline.
The results from the vote are 27 in favour, 4 against and 1 abstention so the request to extend was accepted by the Assembly.
