The United Democratic Party (UDP) is deeply alarmed by serious allegations raised in The Republic article “Inside the multi-million-dollar Gambia gov’t venture that makes president’s nephew a major food importer”, as well as the questionable handling of the sale of Mega Bank under President Barrow’s administration. These matters point to corruption, nepotism, and systemic failure to follow due process.
1. Nepotism & Conflict of Interest.The article alleges that President Barrow’s nephew has been made a major food importer through a government venture. Given the scale of the funds involved, this raises serious concerns about abuse of office and favoritism in government dealings.
2. Loan Awards Without Transparency.It has been reported that government loans were extended to several companies directly linked to the president’s nephew without transparency or due process. Among those named are:
• Win Win Oil
• JV General Trading Import & Export
• Ecotra Group Limited
There is no evidence that these loans were granted through an open, competitive, or transparent process. The Gambian people deserve to know the basis for these allocations, the terms of repayment, and whether the state stands to benefit or lose from such arrangements.
3. Sale of Mega Bank Under Suspicious Circumstances. Reports further allege that Mega Bank was sold below market value to a close associate of President Barrow. No official explanation has been provided regarding the valuation, the bidding process, or the identity of all parties involved. This lack of transparency fuels public suspicion of insider dealing and state capture.
4. Failure to Follow Due Process.Across both the nepotistic food import venture and the Mega Bank sale, there are no clear indications that procurement guidelines, regulatory checks, conflict-of-interest rules, or parliamentary oversight were adhered to. This undermines public trust and threatens the rule of law.
The UDP asserts that public office is a trust, not a family enterprise. The allegations of nepotism, corruption, and insider dealings linked to these matters must not be swept under the carpet. Only full transparency and accountability will restore public confidence.
We therefore urge President Adama Barrow to act decisively and immediately to clear the air by establishing an independent and impartial public inquiry and release all relevant documents and records to public.
The Gambian people deserve nothing less.
Issued by the United Democratic Party Media Team
By: UDP Media
