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Dou Sannoh Accuses Brikama Area Council of Bypassing Due Process in Property Tax Increase
By Buba Gagigo
Council Faces Backlash Over Tax Hike Implementation
Dou Sannoh, a political adviser to President Adama Barrow, has publicly criticized the Brikama Area Council (BAC) for what he describes as an unjustified and improperly implemented increase in property tax. The controversy stems from Chief Lamin Mondo Jatta of Brikama North’s recent call for residents to withhold tax payments, which he labeled as fraudulent.
Chief’s Allegations and Council’s Response
In a widely circulated WhatsApp audio message, Chief Jatta claimed neither the council nor central government consulted him about the tax adjustment. The BAC responded by condemning the chief’s remarks as “irresponsible and dangerous” in an official statement.
Sannoh strongly defended Chief Jatta’s position, stating: “Alhagie Mondo Jatta did the right thing. As a chief, he should be given respect. The council cannot simply raise property taxes from 450 dalasis to 4,000 dalasis without proper consultation.”
Due Process Concerns
The presidential adviser emphasized that the council operates under the Ministry of Local Government and should have coordinated with the ministry before implementing such significant tax changes. He outlined what he believes should have been the proper procedure:
“The correct process would involve informing chiefs, who would then relay the information to village Alikalos, who in turn would inform compound owners. But the Brikama Area Council failed to do this.”
Political Dimensions of the Tax Controversy
Sannoh suggested the tax increase might have political motivations, placing blame on opposition parties for contributing to rising housing costs:
“All the difficulties faced by people who are renting are caused by the opposition because they are putting pressure on the people. Now rent is very expensive, and they will turn around and blame the president while they are the cause.”
Ongoing Tensions in Local Governance
As of publication, BAC has not responded to Sannoh’s latest comments. The dispute highlights growing tensions between political and administrative authorities regarding local governance and fiscal policy, with residents caught in the middle of the escalating conflict.
The situation raises important questions about:
- Proper procedures for tax implementation
- The role of traditional leaders in local governance
- The relationship between area councils and central government
- The impact of political tensions on local decision-making
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