Hon Modou Lamin Bah, Member of Banjul North, has criticised the Office of the President for its decision to assume control of McCarthy Square, a key public space in the capital.
The move, outlined in a letter dated March 11, 2025, has sparked a legal and political dispute over local governance and adherence to national law.
In a strongly worded statement released Thursday, Hon Bah condemned the takeover, saying it was a violation of the Local Government Act of 2002, which grants Banjul City Council (BCC) authority over public parks and recreational areas.
He argued that the central government failed to follow the legal procedures required to reclaim such responsibilities from local authorities.
“McCarthy Square is, and has always been, under the lawful management of the Banjul City Council,” Bah stated. “This unilateral decision undermines the principles of decentralization enshrined in our laws and sets a dangerous precedent.”
Additionally, the lawmaker cited Section 48 of the Local Government Act, which empowers councils to manage public spaces, and emphasised that Schedule II of the law explicitly designates parks and recreation grounds as local government functions.
He further noted that Section 52 of the Act requires the President to consult the affected council before transferring any responsibilities, a step he claims was ignored.
The takeover has raised concerns about restricted public access to the square and potential financial losses for the BCC, which relies on revenue from events and activities held there.
Hon. Bah warned that bypassing legal protocols could erode public trust in governance.
While the President’s Office has not yet responded to the allegations, Bah urged an immediate reversal of the decision, particularly during this month of Ramadan.
“This is a time for unity and respect,” he said. “I call on the government to lead by example, uphold the rule of law, and maintain a collaborative relationship with local authorities,” he advised.
The dispute highlights ongoing tensions between the Gambia’s central government and local councils over resource control and administrative autonomy.
McCarthy Square, a historic site in Banjul for assembly or gathering, has long been a focal point for public events, making its management a sensitive issue for residents.
