By: Fatou Krubally
In a gripping session before the Local Government Commission of Inquiry on March 3, 2025, former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Kerewan Area Council Seedy K. Touray faced rigorous questioning from Counsel Patrick Gomez over allegations of financial misconduct.
The session unveiled alleged financial irregularities during Touray’s tenure at various area councils, highlighting concerns about accountability and governance.
The inquiry delved into multiple instances, where funds were reportedly deposited into Touray’s personal account by council officials.
Mbanyick J. Sonko, a sub-treasurer at Kerewan Area Council, testified that Touray instructed him to deposit substantial sums into his Trust Bank account on several occasions. Sonko stated, “Seedy K. Touray will give me the money to deposit for him in his own account.” When pressed about the total amount deposited, Sonko estimated it to be around D193,000, though records suggest the figure could be higher.
Similarly, Babou Ndour, Market Manager of Mansakonko Area Council, admitted to depositing funds into Touray’s personal account. Ndour revealed that on three separate occasions, he received cash from a tractor driver associated with the council and subsequently deposited the money as directed by Touray. Counsel Gomez questioned the propriety of such actions, emphasizing that council funds should be managed transparently.
The commission also examined the council’s financial management practices under Touray’s leadership. Testimonies highlighted missing financial records, notably the 2018 and 2019 cash books. Former market mistress Isatou Sonko disclosed that these records were handed over to Touray but were never retrieved, raising concerns about accountability. She also mentioned instances where collected funds were used for expenses like fuel purchases under directives from senior officials, including Touray.
Counsel Gomez expressed frustration over the lack of adherence to financial protocols. He highlighted the absence of essential documents such as bank reconciliation statements and asset registers, which are crucial for transparent financial operations. Gomez remarked, “Accounting for council funds will be impossible” without proper documentation.
Throughout the session, Touray appeared evasive, often providing vague responses to direct questions. When confronted about the deposits into his personal account, he claimed the funds were related to personal business dealings, though he struggled to provide concrete evidence. This evasiveness led Counsel Gomez to question Touray’s credibility and commitment to transparency.
The testimony of Seedy K. Touray before the Local Government Commission of Inquiry has shed light on alleged financial mismanagement within the councils he oversaw. The revelations underscore the need for stringent financial controls and accountability mechanisms in local governance.
As the inquiry continues, the commission aims to address these challenges to restore public trust and ensure the proper use of public funds.
