Establishment of the Special Tribunal for The Gambia: A New Era for Justice

A Special Tribunal for The Gambia has been established to prosecute crimes committed during the Yahya Jammeh regime. This decision, made during the ECOWAS Heads of State and Government session, supports regional accountability efforts that build on the Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparations Commission’s findings. The tribunal aims to operate within international legal standards to ensure fair justice processes.

The Special Tribunal for The Gambia has been established following a landmark decision made during the 66th Ordinary Session of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government in Abuja, Nigeria, on 15 December 2024. This initiative aims to prosecute crimes committed during the Yahya Jammeh regime, supported by regional lawmakers and West African states.

This tribunal is a response to the findings of the Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparations Commission (TRRC), which documented extensive human rights abuses that occurred from 2017 to 2021 under Jammeh’s leadership. The TRRC compiled testimonies from both victims and perpetrators, revealing grievous offenses such as murder, torture, and enforced disappearances while recommending avenues for justice and accountability.

Two critical factors contributed to the tribunal’s establishment. Firstly, regional lawmakers recognized The Gambia’s constitutional independence, allowing it to create its judicial mechanisms. Secondly, the engagement of ECOWAS signifies a collective regional commitment to hold accountable those responsible for these crimes, including individuals who have fled the country. The tribunal is expected to function in accordance with international legal standards to provide fair and impartial justice.

The establishment of the Special Tribunal for The Gambia marks a significant step in addressing past human rights violations under the Jammeh regime. Backed by regional lawmakers and the commitment of ECOWAS, the tribunal aims to deliver justice in alignment with international standards. This initiative builds upon the groundwork laid by the TRRC, reinforcing The Gambia’s independence and judicial integrity in pursuing accountability for historical injustices.

Original Source: www.universiteitleiden.nl