By: Fatou Krubally
Former Lead Counsel of the Janneh Commission, Amie Bensouda, yesterday reappeared before the National Assembly Special Select Committee investigating the sale and disposal of assets identified by the Janneh Commission.
During her testimony, Bensouda sought clarity over her role in the commission and potential allegations linked to former secretary Mamadi Kurang.
Bensouda told the committee she had appeared for three consecutive days but was increasingly uncertain about the purpose of some questions being asked. She noted that several witnesses had suggested she head the investigation team, but she emphasized that her role was clearly defined in the commission’s report and official engagement letters.
“I have a feeling, and I may be wrong, that I am being blindsided,” Bensouda told the committee. “If there are allegations I am called upon to answer, I need to know what they are. If this committee is investigating allegations made by Mr. Mamadi Kurang, I should be informed so that I can come prepared to respond.”
Bensouda highlighted that her responsibilities as lead counsel involved coordinating investigations, supervising investigators, and reviewing evidence. She stressed that the commission’s investigators worked under her functional supervision, and that relationships within the commission were collaborative, not hierarchical.
She referred to multiple official documents, including her engagement letters and memos issued to the secretariat, which outlined the scope and operational processes of her team. Bensouda insisted that these documents were definitive in explaining her role, and that opinions or testimonies from other witnesses could not override the commission’s official report.
The former counsel also drew attention to Section 119 of the 1997 Constitution, emphasizing the privileges afforded to witnesses before parliamentary committees and the necessity for transparency when allegations are raised. She questioned whether the committee’s inquiries were strictly within its mandate on asset investigations, cautioning that any personal allegations should be clearly presented.
Bensouda’s testimony underlined her insistence on procedural fairness and transparency, as she sought to ensure that any claims or allegations were formally documented. The hearing continued with detailed discussions on the operations of the commission, the role of investigators, and the legal oversight provided by her office.
Her appearance reinforces ongoing scrutiny over the management of assets identified by the Janneh Commission, while highlighting the need for clarity on what constitutes proper investigative authority and responsibility.
The post Amie Bensouda Reappears Before Parliamentary Select Committee appeared first on .
By: Fatou Krubally Former Lead Counsel of the Janneh Commission, Amie Bensouda, yesterday reappeared before the National Assembly Special…
The post Amie Bensouda Reappears Before Parliamentary Select Committee appeared first on .
