Special Tribunal for The Gambia
At the 66th Ordinary Session of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government held in Abuja, Nigeria, on 15 December 2024, a landmark decision was made to establish the Special Tribunal for The Gambia.’ (Press release by the Ministry of Justice of The Gambia)
With the backing of regional lawmakers and West African states, The Gambia is taking action to prosecute the crimes committed under the former Yahya Jammeh regime by way of the establishment of a special tribunal. The Tribunal builds on the findings of the nation’s ‘Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparations Commission’ (TRRC), which investigated and documented the human rights abuses committed under Jammeh’s rule between 2017 and 2021. The TRRC heard testimonies from victims and perpetrators, exposing crimes including murder, torture, rape and enforced disappearances, issuing recommendations for actions towards justice and accountability.
The establishment of the special tribunal was accomplished in light of two major factors. First, the formal recognition by the regional lawmakers of The Gambia’s constitutional independence and autonomy to institute its own judicial mechanisms. Secondly, the involvement of ECOWAS ensures a region-wide commitment to prosecute those who are accountable, including individuals who have fled the nation. The court is said to operate in accordance with international legal standards, aiming to deliver fair and impartial justice.
Sources and more information:
Gambia: West African States agree on Court for Jammeh-era crimes | ICJ
Gambia Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (2017-2021) African Transitional Justice Hub
ECOWAS approves establishment of Special Tribunal for Gambia - The Point
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