Gambia in turmoil over forced removal of Auditor General
Rights Groups Condemn Barrow’s Move to Replace Auditor Amid Corruption Claims
Elohim Nyame 
The Gambia has been thrown into political turmoil following the forceful removal of Auditor General Momodou Ceesay from office, sparking protests and condemnation from rights groups.
Ceesay, who had served for nearly three years, claims he was pressured by President Adama Barrow to accept a ministerial post as trade minister, an offer he says he turned down. However, the government insists he initially agreed but later reversed his decision.
His ousting has triggered anger among citizens and civil society organisations, who accuse President Barrow of seeking to install a more pliant auditor to shield his administration from mounting corruption allegations.
Protests have erupted in the capital, Banjul, with demonstrators calling for Ceesay’s reinstatement. The police have responded with arrests, detaining activists and a journalist covering the unrest. Rights groups argue that the removal not only undermines government accountability but also threatens democratic institutions.
“Removing an independent auditor in this manner is a dangerous precedent that weakens oversight and transparency,” one rights coalition said in a statement.
Despite the backlash, President Barrow has named Cherno Amadou Sowe as the new Auditor General. However, Sowe has yet to assume office as resistance to the move continues to mount.
The controversy adds to growing concerns over governance and corruption in The Gambia, with critics warning that the government’s handling of the crisis risks eroding public trust in state institutions.
Credit: DW Africa
