The Office of the President has officially taken control of McCarthy Square, a historic site previously managed by the Banjul City Council (BCC).
In a letter addressed to the BCC, the cabinet secretary stated that the takeover follows recent renovations carried out as part of the country’s 60th independence anniversary celebrations. The letter emphasized that significant funds were spent on upgrading the square and that proper management and security were needed to maintain it. An inventory of all movable assets at the site will be conducted in consultation with the current management.
Reacting to the decision, Banjul Mayor Rohey Lowe, who is currently out of the country, expressed disappointment. She questioned why her council continues to face what she described as hostility from the government, citing past incidents such as staff suspensions and exclusion from major projects like the Banjul Roads Project. She also speculated whether her being a woman played a role in the challenges she faces.
Despite her concerns, the presidency has not provided further clarification on the future management plans for the square.
