Jallow, who has been with the council since 1995, has held various positions, including timekeeper, car park supervisor, and paying cashier, before being appointed as Director of Administration on October 17, 2019.
Appearing Before the Local Government commission of inquiry (LGCI), Jallow confirmed that disciplinary actions within the council are communicated to the Local Government Commission. He acknowledged that he writes disciplinary letters to staff involved in misconduct, with resolutions coming from the Establishment Committee. However, concerns have been raised about the enforcement of these measures.
Jallow was questioned about the appointment of certain key staff, including Binta Conteh, Secretary to the Mayoress, and other individuals such as Makumba Sanneh (adviser), PaModou Ndow (Trade License Manager), and Isatou Njie. While he confirmed that appointments are usually made by the Establishment Committee, he could not explain how these individuals were appointed but joined the Council with the mayoress as she took over.
He also confirmed the existence of a 2018 task force report that led to the dismissal and pay-off of some staff, though he did not have a copy of the report. According to him, affected employees sued the council, but the matter was later resolved with a structured payment plan.
Concerns were also raised about the council’s loan policies. Jallow admitted that staff, including himself, have benefited from personal and car loans. He confirmed receiving a GMD 130,000 car loan and a GMD 40,000 personal loan. However, it was revealed that he had taken another loan before fully repaying the first one.
When asked whether his senior position influenced loan approvals, he denied any special privileges. It was also noted that some staff had multiple personal loans, though Jallow claimed he was unaware of this.
He further admitted that there is no specific loan policy at the council, and approvals are made directly by the finance team and the CEO.
Jallow was questioned about the 2022 audit findings, particularly the use of unofficial receipt books for revenue collection at Albert Market. He claimed he could not recall discussing this matter and was unaware of the details.
Regarding senior management meetings, Jallow stated they occur once or twice a month, with the Mayor occasionally attending. He confirmed that external audit findings are sometimes presented to the council, but no specific actions were mentioned.
