During the Local Government Commission of Inquiry, Lamin Jawara, a revenue collector who has been employed by the Brikama Area Council for more than two decades, disclosed that he occasionally employs his collections to provide for his family.

Mr. Jawara stated that this behavior, which is not characteristic of him, was the result of financial constraints that prevented him from supporting his family. He has expressed his intention to recoup all of the funds that he has misappropriated.

“There are no actions you can take as a family man with so many limitations.” “I cannot disregard it; this is the moment when circumstances oblige me to take specific actions,” he stated.

Lead Counsel Patrick Gomez expressed his regret for witness Jawara’s circumstances, but he stressed that this does not justify his use of unlawful methods.

“Even if you have a valid justification in your mind, that is still theft,” Lead Council Gomez warned the witness.

witness Jawara apologized for his actions and acknowledged that they were improper in response. Jainaba Bah, the Commission Chairperson, and Lead Counsel Gomez both commended the witness for his courageous admission of his faults.

The witness was repeatedly informed by Lead Counsel Gomez that the Internal Audit Unit of the council has inquired about an amount of ten thousand, two hundred and twenty-five Dalasi from his collection.

The witness clarified in his response that the money was disbursed to his co-worker for deposit at the bank on his behalf. However, the deposit receipt contained the name of his co-worker rather than his own name (the witness’s), a fact that his co-worker could verify.

Counsel Gomez, however, informed the witness that he had collected thirteen thousand and fifty Dalasi from November 1st to November 7th, 2022, and had signed the document. However, his balance was eight thousand, seven hundred and fifty Dalasi. Counsel Gomez inquired as to why this was to be the case and why the witness did not pay the complete amount.