NEWS Gambian Judge To Head Commission Of Inquiry Of Past Ministers in Sierra Leone Posted by on Sep 5, 2008, 17:47

Very soon the talk around town that the proposed Commission of Inquiry is just another ordinary political pep talk without any stigma will soon come to an end, when at anytime from now the commission will kick off operation. A source at the Attorney General’s office has intimated this medium that the necessary modalities have been put in place. The venue that sittings would take place is the Atlantic Hall at the National Stadium, except otherwise that witness a change in venue; if not the Atlantic Hall has been viewed as one of the most convenient place to conduct sittings.

Mr. Serry Kamal at a press conference two weeks back officially informed the public through the media that those nominated as commissioners and chairperson have been contacted through various correspondences. Up to press time, it is reliably learnt that the Ernest Koroma government has received from the nominees’ very pleasant responses and their willingness to serve the state of Sierra Leone. There will be two commissioners and a chairperson for the commission which would last for about three to four weeks, an extension would only be determined if the workload cannot be accomplished within the specified time frame.

Competent government source has revealed that a Gambian Judge has indicated his willingness to be the chairperson of the commission. The willingness when of the Gambian Judge when communicated to the President, state house sources say was received with great happiness and satisfaction.

What now remains is for government to slate a date for the commencement of the commission which terms of reference would be to look into the transition report and the activities of past government ministers and officials.

Meanwhile, there are speculations among government officials that the commission would commence sittings either at the end of the month of Ramadan or in October, but would not be in December or anytime next year. The reason for the setting of up the commission according to a government official is to give a clear picture of how funds were utilized for the improvement of the state and its people by the previous government. Furthermore to present a correct picture of what the current government inherited in contrast to the wide claims of the last government.