By: Binta Jaiteh
The Youth President of the United Democratic Party (UDP), Hajie Suwaneh, has questioned the two investigation reports,regarding the alleged encroachment on reserved lands.
On July 4th, 2024, the Ministry of Lands, Regional Government, and Religious Affairs launched two task forces to investigate the encroachment into government-designated reserve lands. One task force was established to look into land allocations in the Tanbi Wetlands in Jeshwang and Cape Point, while the other was tasked with investigating allocations in other reserved lands.
Suwaneh argued that the Barrow government continues to allocate reserved lands without proper consultation or adherence to due process.
He noted that the two task forces were expected to submit their reports within six weeks, or maximum of two months.
“The ministry indicated that these areas are valuable ecological assets that support a diverse range of flora and fauna, playing crucial roles in maintaining environmental health, which is vital for orderly urban development,” Suwaneh stated in an interview with this reporter.
He, however, expressed concern that after six months, no report has been published, regarding these investigations to inform citizens about how the reserves were allocated or managed.
“What could be the reason for the government’s failure to disclose the outcomes of these reports?” he asked.
The youth representative accused Barrow’s government ofenvironmental destruction and of allocation of lands without following due process. He contended that the government lacks the commitment to implement a comprehensive reform program to ensure transparency, efficiency, and sustainability in land management and governance.
Suwaneh accused the government of embezzling public funds to rent private offices for ministries and government departments.
He urged citizens to take action by tightening their belts and preparing to make a change in the upcoming 2026 elections.
“We must wake up, demand the release of the two investigation reports, and condemn the wrongful allocation of state lands for personal gains,” Suwaneh charged.
