Jammeh Swallows His Words Again

Yahya Jammeh, President of the Republic of the Gambia, addresses the 69th United Nations General Assembly at the U.N. headquarters in New York September 25, 2014. REUTERS/Lucas Jackson

As He Reverses Tajudeen’s Expulsion

Gambian President Yahya Jammeh has once again swallowed his words by reversing his expulsion order of a prominent business tycoon. For more details, read this Reuters story below:

Gambia reversed a decision to deport a Lebanese businessman accused by the United States of providing financial support to the Lebanese militant movement Hezbollah.

Hussein Tajudeen, an importer of rice and flour who also owns the country’s largest shopping centre, was accused of “unacceptable business practices” and expelled from Gambia earlier this month.

The authorities had also ordered the closure of his businesses.

A statement issued by the president’s office on Friday said that the expulsion order had been rescinded and Tajudeen had pledged to adhere to standard business practices.

The United States accuses Tajudeen and two brothers of running an African business network that helps finance Hezbollah, an Iranian-backed Shi’ite Muslim group.

Tajudeen’s family has in the past denied accusations that some of its businesses serve as fronts for Hezbollah.

Gambia ordered Tajudeen’s expulsion once before, accusing him of profiteering, although he later received a presidential pardon for unclear reasons.

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