Gambia Passes Bills to Enable Domestic Trial of Ex-Dictator Yahya Jammeh

The Gambian parliament has passed two landmark bills that pave the way for the domestic trial of former President Yahya Jammeh for human rights violations committed during his 22-year rule. The bills, known as the Special Accountability Mechanism (TRRC) Bill, 2024 and the Special Prosecutor's Office Bill, were approved during an extraordinary session of the National Assembly in Banjul, the capital of The Gambia.

The Special Accountability Mechanism (TRRC) Bill establishes a framework for investigating and prosecuting the crimes and human rights abuses that occurred under Jammeh's regime from 1994 to 2016. It also provides a mechanism for compensating victims of these atrocities. The Special Prosecutor's Office Bill creates a dedicated office tasked with leading the investigations and prosecutions.

Jammeh, who seized power in a 1994 coup, ruled The Gambia with an iron fist until he was forced into exile in 2017 after losing a presidential election to Adama Barrow. During his reign, Jammeh's government was accused of widespread human rights violations, including torture, enforced disappearances, and extrajudicial killings.

Why this matters: The domestic trial of Yahya Jammeh signifies a critical juncture in The Gambia's pursuit of justice and accountability for the atrocities committed during his oppressive 22-year rule. It sends a powerful message that no one, including former heads of state, is above the law and that victims of human rights abuses deserve justice and reparations.

The bills' approval has been welcomed by human rights organizations and victims' groups, who have long called for Jammeh to face justice. "This is a historic moment for The Gambia and a major step towards ending impunity for the crimes committed under Yahya Jammeh's brutal regime," said Baba Hydara, a representative of the Gambia Center for Victims of Human Rights Violations. The international community has also praised The Gambia's efforts to address its past and bring those responsible for human rights abuses to account.

Key Takeaways

• Gambian parliament passes bills to prosecute ex-president Yahya Jammeh for human rights abuses.
• Bills establish a special accountability mechanism and prosecutor's office to investigate and prosecute crimes.
• Jammeh ruled Gambia with an iron fist from 1994 to 2016, accused of torture, disappearances, and killings.
• Domestic trial of Jammeh marks a critical step in Gambia's pursuit of justice and accountability.
• Human rights groups and the international community welcome the move to end impunity for past atrocities.