#National News

Former nominated councillor at BAC  testifies

Sep 12, 2024, 10:52 AM | Article By: Ali Jaw

Edward Pereira, former nominated councilor for the differently-abled at the Brikama Area Council (BAC) has appeared before the Local Government Commission of Inquiry.

Pereira’s written statement dated 27th of  August 2024, was tendered and admitted in evidence.

The former nominated councilor was also among the recipients of the ‘Salibo allowance’.

During his testimony, Pereira claimed that the allowances were ‘honorarium’ and not Salibo. However, he was not able to provide any answer with regards to what an honorarium was, adding: “The BAC used to give us these allowances during Koriteh and Tobaski period annually.”

He however, admitted that he did not do any work for it. He also refuted the claim made by former CEO Modou Jonga that Christian councilors were also given the honorarium during Christmas.

“I was the only Christian councillor and I have never received the allowances during Christmas,” he stated, while admitting that the payment of the Salibo allowance was ‘unlawful’.