Classified information reaching this paper indicate that the impounded house of Gambia’s Agriculture Minister Yankuba Touray, has been returned to him with immediate effect. Insiders at the government law office in Banjul, say the President, has given orders for Yankuba’s assets to be returned. Mr.Touray was among the dozens of public officers, whose assets were confiscated by the state, following a commission report, which found him liable for massive corruption and abuse of office.

Well placed sources at the Attorney General Chambers say Touray, was given a special treatment by the State. Yankuba Touray, widely known as “Maginokos or Jali Touray” is said to be a charismatic politician, whose service they say was still needed by the Head of State. The return of his Kotu house was seen in many quarters as way of motivating him to canvass votes for the Ruling Party in the country’s October, 2006, Presidential elections.

“The government returned his house to him secretly. There is an order to confiscate Touray’s property, but in reality that order had been voided by the Head of State. Take my words for granted. Our office handled the Commission findings and I know what I’m talking about.” said our source at the AG Chambers.

It would be recalled that SOS Touray, was ordered by the Paul Commission to pay over two million Gambian dalasis to the State. Our sources hinted that Touray had not paid the said sum and there was no indication on his side to suggest that he will ever pay such state embezzled funds.

Also among those whose properties were confiscated include, former Inspector General of police Ebou Njie and a host of other public servants. Our sources say the Presidential directive to hand over Touray’s assets was communicated to the Secretary of State for Justice Sheik Tijan Hydara.

“He informed Yanks about the President’s gesture, but asked him to make it private. That he should not allow others who are affected by the Commission’s findings to know about it. As we speak, this is the true state of affairs.” Our source added.

Observers say the Presidential move in returning Touray’s assets will further encourage corruption in official circles in the tiny West African country.