The National Assembly Member for Foni Bintang Karanai initiated this call while giving his submission on the motion tabled by Majority Leader, Hon. Billay Tunkara, member for Kantora, to establish a special select committee to inquire into the sale and disposal of the assets identified by the commission of inquiry into the financial activities of public bodies, enterprises and offices as regards their dealings with former president Yahya Jammeh, and connected matter.
The Foni Bintang Karanai NAM, Bakary Badjie, underscored: “The hearing should be live, and media should be given full access to the hearing and nothing should be hidden. It should be live on social media, every platform, where the people will know what is happening, to what extent it is happening, and how it is happening.”
He further highlighted: “Public access also promotes informed public debate. The media can report on the inquiry's findings, and the public can form their own opinions based on the evidence presented. This can lead to a more engaged and informed citizenry.
“This will promote effectiveness, transparency, and accountability. It will ensure that anyone that has been involved in illegalities will face adequate punishment.”
He added, stressing on the committee: “This committee will be one of the most active committees, because we will be watching them, holding them to account, and we will ensure no stone is left unturned.”
Badibou Central NAM Sulayman Saho also echoed the call for a full media coverage, saying: “The media plays a crucial role in promoting transparency; therefore, it should be open to all.
“Openness can build trust in the democratic process. When people can see how decisions are made and how the government is held accountable, they are more likely to trust their elected officials and the institutions of government.”
He also called on people with conflict of interests to excuse themselves and allow impartiality to prevail.
