The National Assembly in 2012 passed into law Anti-Corruption Commission Bill, which establishes the commission that is vested with the powers to investigate and recommend for prosecution any suspect corrupt practice. Prescribing a punishment of up to five years upon guilt, the anti corruption law also provides protection for whistle blowers.
“[S]ignificant progress has been made to ensure that the Commission is fully functional,” President Jammeh said in his state of the nation address last Friday. “It is expected that in 2015 all the 7 Commissioners and the executive Secretary will be appointed to commence operations.”
The Gambian leader spoke against corruption, noting that the commission forms part of his government’s efforts to institutionalise the fight against the menace.
He added: “Corruption makes a country sickly and less attractive as an investment destination. It limits access to much needed services, stifles efficiency and eats away public resources. Therefore, we shall not waiver in the fight against corruption.”
Oil exploration
President Jammeh has expressed optimism about the prospects of petroleum exploration in the country with the restoration of licence for Africa Petroleum.
“As a result,” he continued, “we monitor the implementation of the recently reinstated A1 and A4 licences to Africa Petroleum Gambia Ltd. to ensure their fulfillment of the drilling obligations. We will also monitor our offshore Blocks A2 and A5 licence to Camac Energy Inc. which has recently completed Geological and Geophysical studies, which led to identification of leads and prospects in the licenced areas. Government through the Ministry of Petroleum will continue to maintain its policy of strict compliance to work obligations and ensure favourable fiscal terms in the national interest.”
Jammeh noted the liberalisation of fuel imports in 2014, leading to issuance of licence to eight companies oil marketing companies, though only three companies – GNPC, Euro Africa and Castle – have so far started importing.
He added: “The construction of The Petroleum House, an ultra modern nine storey building in the Brusubi roundabout, which shall serve as headquarters of GNPC and MOP, has been a major project for the Ministry. An approximate total of D150 Million has been spent on the project, which is anticipated to be completed by June 2015.”
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