Fabakary Tombong Jatta, speaker of the National Assembly
By Ramatoulie Jawo
Hon. Fabakary T. Jatta, the Speaker of the National Assembly, on Monday praised the Members of the National Assembly Joint Committee on Finance and Public Accounts Committee, and the Public Enterprises Committee for their handling of the petroleum saga.
Hon. Jatta made these remarks during his opening statement at the beginning of the third ordinary session of the 2024 legislative year.
The committee is tasked with investigating the petroleum saga involving 36,953.614 metric tons of petroleum products valued at Thirty Million United States Dollars ($30,000,000).
“I want to commend a dedicated group of members who have been entrusted with a critical and monumental task to conduct a parliamentary inquiry into the alleged petroleum activities and transactions within our institutions,” he said.
He warned that corruption undermines democracy and erodes public trust.
“It compromises the integrity of our system and impedes progress, addressing this issue requires not only courage and integrity, but also an unwavering commitment to justice and transparency. To the members selected for this important inquiry, I extend my deepest appreciation and commendation, your willingness to take on this challenging role demonstrates your dedication to the principles of accountability and good governance,” he added.
Speaker Jatta emphasized that they have stepped forward at a critical moment, and their efforts have been instrumental In ensuring that they uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct.
He added that the Assembly is not merely a forum for debate, but a crucible where ideas are tested and solutions to their most pressing challenges are forged. He said, as their speaker, it is his duty to ensure the chambers remain a place of respect, diligence, and integrity.
“Political tolerance is not merely a principle; it is the cornerstone of vibrant democracy; it allows for the free exchange of ideas, the healthy debate of politics, and the peaceful coexistence of differing opinions; it’s what enables us to function as a unified society despite our varied perspectives and beliefs,” he stated.