The mayor, while presenting the activity and financial reports of Banjul City Council (BBC) for the year 2019-2020 before deputies, also expressed her dissatisfaction over the transfer of CEOs and financial directors who were adversely mentioned by the National Audit Office (NAO) for their incompetence in managing their positions.
She also mentioned that other councils had raised concerns over some of the individuals being transferred.
“So, I really don’t understand the use of the NAO; because I think that establishment is here to help us. We are not saying don’t transfer or move but allow us to settle our in-house differences, and allow those responsible to understand what they have done is a serious matter,” the Mayor opined.
“But all of a sudden you have a friend and another friend here who would tell you it's okay; just allow them to come. At the end of the day, nothing will come out of it. This is truly painful, and for me, I cannot just sit down and keep quiet over this, and it means I am not making justice for my establishment and audit office as well,” she stressed.
Mayor Lowe pointed out that BCC has issues, and if the NAO report is out, it would reveal the reason for her complaint, underlining that it’s important for people to respect the work of the NAO.
As the head of an institution, she noted, her only tool to arm herself with is the audit reports.
The Banjul Mayor also raised concern about the National Audit Office's letter addressed to her office, stating that “Mr X does not have the necessary qualifications for his position”. Whereas that letter was sent four years ago, and despite subsequent correspondence to the local government service commission and the ministry, no action was taken to remove him/her from his position.
The furious Mayor, however, further opined that she felt the authorities did not consider it to be their problem; rather the responsibility of the National Audit Office.
As a result, she has decided to remove Mr X from the payroll, citing the reports of the National Audit as evidence. She emphasised the importance of taking this action.
The committee ordered her to write to the local government committee and then they would take the necessary measures in solving the issue.
