UNITE Welcomes Supreme Court Ruling on Auditor General’s landmark case

The Unite Movement for Change (UMC) has positively received the recent Supreme Court ruling regarding the Auditor General, viewing it as a significant triumph for constitutionalism, rule of law, and the independence of democratic institutions in The Gambia.
In a press release issued after the decision was announced, the party emphasized that this verdict reinforces the authority of the Constitution and serves as a reminder that no individual, regardless of their position, is immune to the law. UMC also highlighted the vital role of the judiciary in holding the Executive accountable in cases where constitutional principles are disregarded.
The party believes that this judgment will instill trust and confidence in the justice system and reinforce the fundamental principle that all constitutional processes must be respected.
However, UMC expressed disappointment that this matter even had to go to court, stating that the constitutional provisions pertaining to the Auditor General’s tenure and removal are clear. The party firmly believes that the government’s failure to abide by these provisions resulted in unnecessary legal action, causing financial strain on taxpayers and damaging public trust in governance.
While UMC acknowledges the Court’s decision to deem the removal unlawful and award damages and ongoing compensation to the former Auditor General, they are saddened by the Court’s choice not to order his reinstatement.
The party argues that since the Court recognized the unconstitutionality of the removal, the rightful remedy should have been to restore the former Auditor General to his position. They maintain that the appointment of another individual cannot legitimize an act that goes against the Constitution.