Establishment of the Special Tribunal for The Gambia: A Landmark Decision in Pursuit of Justice

The Special Tribunal for The Gambia was established on 15 December 2024 to prosecute crimes from the Yahya Jammeh era, backed by ECOWAS. It builds on findings from the Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparations Commission and aims to ensure justice by holding accountable those responsible for human rights abuses. The tribunal is designed to function under international legal standards.

On 15 December 2024, a landmark decision was made during the 66th Ordinary Session of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government in Abuja, Nigeria, to establish the Special Tribunal for The Gambia. This initiative aims to prosecute crimes committed during the regime of former President Yahya Jammeh, with significant support from regional lawmakers and several West African nations.

The Tribunal is built upon the findings of The Gambia’s Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparations Commission (TRRC), which investigated human rights abuses that occurred between 2017 and 2021. The TRRC documented serious crimes such as murder, torture, rape, and enforced disappearances, while also issuing recommendations for achieving justice and accountability for victims.

The establishment of the special tribunal reflects two critical factors: the recognition of The Gambia’s constitutional independence by regional lawmakers and the commitment of ECOWAS to support prosecution efforts against those responsible for these crimes, even if they have fled the country. The tribunal is expected to operate within international legal standards, ensuring fair and impartial justice for all victims.

The establishment of the Special Tribunal for The Gambia represents a significant step towards justice for victims of the Yahya Jammeh regime. Supported by ECOWAS and based on the work of the TRRC, the tribunal seeks to hold accountable those responsible for grave human rights violations while affirming The Gambia’s constitutional independence in judicial matters. This development signifies a commitment to accountability and regional cooperation in addressing past injustices.

Original Source: www.universiteitleiden.nl