Central prison Inmates Speaks To Judges

A judicial committee headed by Justice Ebrima Justice E. Jaiteh, a judge of the High Court with the support of Justice Basiru V.P. Mahoney, a judge of the Gambia Court of Appeal, have conducted a visit to The Gambia’s main prison, Mile II. Honourable Omar Cham, the Master of the High Court together with two judicial support staff was part of the visit. The visit was conducted on Friday, 12 July 2024.

The prison visit committee was established by Chief Justice Hassan B. Jallow during the 2023 Legal Year with the mandate to visit and audit the remand wings of the prisons and also cases of prisoners every six months and report to him on instances of prolonged detentions and recommend remedial measures accordingly. 

On Friday, the Committee on Performance of Judicial Accountability on the prisons visited Mile II to advise the Chief Justice on the status of the inmates remanded in Mill II.

During the interactions, the inmates told the judicial authorities that they face difficulties in accessing court records to appeal decisions. 

Omar Cham, the Master of the High Court informed them that they have employed 14 new typists to address the problem. He said they would be stationed in Bundung and their work would be mainly on typing.



It was noted that some of the inmates were charged at the Magistrates’ Court and were transferred to the High Court because the lower courts lacked the power to try those cases. 

However, after the transfer, these people would be remanded in Mile II but their cases would not proceed in the High Court because the case files are not transferred. 

They would stay with the police while the inmates live in Mile II without their cases being heard at the High Court. It was discovered that some of the inmates have spent so many years in detention without appearing in the High Court.

It was noted that some of the case files were lost. Some of the inmates claimed that they had never been taken to the High Court based on the claim that they were searching for their misplaced files and detained without hope about their fates.

The interviews also revealed that almost 20 inmates are having issues with mental health but they were mixed among the other inmates. Some of them were taken to a psychiatric facility but were returned to Mile II. 

Prison authorities informed the judicial committee that some of the mentally ill people were returned after setting fire at the psychiatric centre. 

Lamin Jallow is a mentally ill person who has never appeared in court. Pama Jara Bah has been in detention for four years without a court appearance.

It was discovered that some of the inmates’ cases could not proceed because of the lack of diligent prosecution. The inmates complained that the prosecution lawyers and the defence lawyers were the reason for the prolonged detention of their repeated absenteeism. Some of the detainees have been undergoing trial for nine years, 10 years, 11 years, and 20 years without an end.

Some of the inmates said they do not have access to judgments delivered in their cases. They raised concerns that it makes it difficult for them to understand the court’s decision and decide whether to appeal or not.

Other sections of inmates said they did not have lawyers to represent them and they could not file their appeals. Justice Jaiteh told them about the National Agency for Legal Aid (NALA), but the inmates replied that they did not have any idea about NALA.

Detained soldier, Lance Corporal Sanna Fadera, who was detained for staging a coup against President Adama Barrow also raised a concern to the Committee. The convict said after his sentencing the prosecution filed an appeal and on their first appearance, the Court of Appeal informed the State to put their house in order. 

He added that since that day, which is over half a year, he has never appeared in court. He stated that he has an intention to also appeal against his conviction. Justice Mahoney told him that he could appeal on his own. Justice Ebrima Jaiteh advised him to balance the situation before filing an appeal because the Appellant Court can add, subtract or maintain the decision of the High Court.

Some of the inmates informed the committee that they would be on trial for one year to four years while in detention. In the end, the court would convict them for six months or a year. This means the duration they spend in prison is more than their sentence terms. This is why the courts would discharge them on the day of sentencing.

Lawyer LJ Darboe Recalled 2 Prosecution Witnesses In PIU Shootings

By Kemeseng Sanneh (Kexx)

Senior Lawyer Lamin J. Darboe has called two prosecution witnesses in the police shooting to further cross-examine them. Darboe said the reason for recalling them was because he obtained new evidence and wanted to use it to question them. The two recalled witnesses were Police Commissioner Momodou Sowe of the Police Anti-Crime Unit and Bakary R. Jarjou,a member of the Gambia Armed Forces (GAF). Lawyer LJ Darboe is representing Ousainou Bojang, who is accused of shooting and killing two (2) policemen at the Sukuta-Jabang traffic lights. He allegedly injured another policewoman during the shooting incident. He denied the charges against him. The application to recall the witnesses was not opposed by the Director of Public Prosecution Abdul Maita Yusuf. “We don’t intend to oppose the application and we are ready to make available the recalled witnesses for further cross-examination. They are all available right now for further cross-examination,” DPP Yusuf told the court. Justice Ebrima Jaiteh granted the application and ordered one of the witnesses to enter the witness box. Bakary R. Jarjou was the first to be recalled.

“You said you visited Palma Rima Beach on the 12th of September 2023 with Ismaila Bojang and Omar S Jallow. Is that correct and do you recall the time?” Counsel Lamin J Darboe asked. “Yes, it was in the evening. I cannot recall the time as it was a long time,” the witness answered. He testified that after work they decided to go to the beach and from there they proceeded to the Sukuta-Jabang Traffics Lights. “Do you recall when you went to New Yundum,” Counsel Lamin J Darboe asked. “I cannot remember the time,” the witness answered. Counsel Lamin J. Darboe asked him to look at a document containing his number and confirm if that was his number. It was a printout of the caller information from Africell, a GSM operator in The Gambia. The witness confirmed that the number therein was his. The document from Africell was tendered and admitted in evidence. The document covers from 1 September 2023 to 31 October 2023. It was marked as exhibit D13. The witness was asked to look at page 5 of the document, specifically the last 2 entries. The witness was asked whether he was the one who made those calls. He said he does not know. Senior Counsel Darboe told the witness that the call log indicated two calls coming from him to Ismaila Bojang and Omar S. Jallow. The Director of Public Prosecution A.M Yusuf (DPP) objected stating that the documents are before the court and speak for themselves. DPP Yusuf said even if the Counsel questions the witness and he responds to the questions, that does not change the content of the document. He submitted that the question was irrelevant. Counsel Darboe disagreed. He submitted that he was questioning the witness on the content of the document to help clarify issues before the court. Justice Jaiteh allowed the question as he overruled the DPP. The Judge said the answers the witness gives would not change the content of the document. He highlighted that the question is allowed as the document indicates that the calls were made to Ismaila and Omar. He held that the issue of who made the calls is relevant. The witness replied that he did not know who made the call. Counsel Lamin J. Darboe further told the witness that he did not come to the traffic lights that night from Palma Rima, but the witness insisted he came from Palma Rima “I am putting it to you that you came to the traffic lights from your home village (New Yundum)?” Counsel Lamin J. Darboe said. “I came from Palma Rima to the traffic lights,” the witness stated. “I am putting it to you that it would not be necessary for you to call Omar S. Jallow and Ismaila Bojang if you were together with them,” Counsel Lamin J. Darboe emphasised. “When Omar went to buy Afra, that was when the person called, but I forgot who called to tell him the location where we were,” the witness replied. “Can you tell the court why you called Ismaila Bojang if you were together with him,”? Counsel Lamin J Darboe sought. “I cannot remember calling Ismaila Bojang,” the witness answered. “Mr Jarju, I am putting it to you that you were coordinating a transaction between Omar S. Jallow, Ismaila Bojang and yourself,” Counsel Lamin J. Darboe said. “I cannot remember at all,” the witness replied. With no further question, the witness was discharged by the Judge. Police Commissioner Momodou Sowe entered the witness box and Lawyer Darboe began questioning him. Commissioner Sowe said he was at the Sukuta-Jabang Traffic Lights arounf 10 pm. “Have you met any military officer at the scene on that night,”? Counsel Lamin J.Darboe asked. “Yes,” Commissioner Sowe answered. “Have you spoken to Bakary Jarju (PW2) that night,”? Counsel Lamin J. Darboe asked. “I cannot remember talking to him, but I can remember seeing him at the traffic lights,” Commissioner Sowe answered. Counsel Lamin J. Darboe then informed Commissioner Sowe that there was a telephone number on his witness statement, and sought for Commissioner Sowe to look at it and tell the court if that was his telephone number. Commissioner Sowe confirmed the Africell number was his contact. Counsel Darboe applied to tender the call logs of Commissioner Sowe (PW5) from 1 September 2023 to 30th September 2023 as an exhibit. With no objections from the DPP, the Africell call log of Commissioner Sowe (PW5) was admitted into evidence and marked as Exhibit D14. “Is it correct that you went to RVTH through Denton Bridge when you left the traffic lights that night,”? Counsel Lamin J. Darboe asked. “Yes, that is correct,” Commissioner Sowe answered. With no further question, the presiding Judge Justice Jaiteh discharged Police Commissioner Sowe (the witness). The case was adjourned to Monday 22nd July 2024.

QCell Signed Mariama Gina Bass As Brand Ambassador

source;Thepoint.gm QCell, the only Gambian privately owned telecommunications company in The Gambia, has signed Africa’s fastest woman in 100m race, Gina Mariam Bass Bittaye, commonly Gina Bass, as its Brand Ambassador. The signing, done also in celebration of Gina Bass’s achievement as the most decorated Gambian athlete, took place on Friday at the head office of QCell, which has succeeded to be the first GSM Operator to launch 5G in West Africa, graduating from the first to launch 3G and 4G in The Gambia. Success comes with a lot of hard work, QGroup Chairman Muhammed Jah remarked, saying commendably Gina did not achieve her success overnight. “She worked hard for many years to reach this level,” he appreciated the Gambian athletics ambassador. Chairman Jah stated that they believe that Gina would serve as true ambassador of QCell, adding that “she has the values” that QCell believes in.

Gina is Africa’s Usain Bolt, Mr Jah describes Africa’s fastest woman in 100m race, saying QCell wants to promote Gina to a level where everyone in the world would know she is a champion - a pride of The Gambia and Africa! A human development-centred business chief, Mr Jah also thanked the Gambia Government for giving his company the opportunity to be able to impact lives in the country. Chairman Muhammed Jah and team received a shower of thanks and praise from the Youth and Sports Minister Bakary Y. Badjie for the initiative, in appreciation for “everything they are doing in the sports sector”.

Minister Badjie pointed out that for many decades the upkeep of sports in the country has been between government and the national sports associations. “The private sector to a large extent stayed behind and watch government and the associations to finance sports activities,” he voiced out. However, he said, in recent years they have seen some of the private sector coming on board and supporting their efforts. “QCell has taken the lead in the real investment,” the Sports minister said. “They are not only supporting us during competitions but also with infrastructure.” He contends that there is nowhere in the world where the government makes an athlete rich. “What makes athletes rich is the endorsements they get from the private sector and signings for promotional activities,” he highlighted.'

They hope other companies in the country would learn from QCell and sign athletes in all sports disciplines in the country, the minister said, boosting the morale of Gina Bass: “We hope you will win an Olympic medal you so deserve this year.” As a ministry, he added, they would continue to do their best for sports development in the country, saying there is no sector that is exporting more talents out of the country than sport. Gina has done and continue to do well for The Gambia as a result of her dedication, commitment and love for what she does, applauded the Gambia National Olympic Committee President Beatrice Allen. The GNOC president added that they are confident Gina would make The Gambia proud in Paris during the Olympic Games later this month, although they would not weigh her down with undue expectations. Madam Allen thanked QCell for recognizing Gina, saying she hopes other private enterprises, businesses and donors would emulate QCell. Amie Sise, QCell Senior Marketing Manager, said Gina’s achievements resonates deeply with QCell’s values and aspirations.

“Gina is not just an athlete. She is a symbol of perseverance, dedication and triumph in the world of sport,” she extols Africa’s athletic queen, saying: “Her accomplishment on the track has been nothing short of extraordinary, aligning perfectly with QCell’s commitment to excellence and pushing boundaries. We are inspired by Gina’s journey and the impact she has made in the sporting world.” Further, she said: “Gina Mariam Bass Bittaye is very humble but her achievements are no small feat. Her values of hard work, determination and resilience mirror with our own corporate business, making her an idol representative of QCell,” she added. Commissioner Lamin Bojang, who deputised the Inspector General Police at the function, thanked QCell for recognizing Gina’s efforts. A small country though, The Gambia is full of talents, the Commissioner commends, saying “Gina is a manifestation of that talent we have as a country.” He echoed IGP’s commitment to advancing and supporting young Gambians in sport to unearth their hidden talents. He also encouraged Gina to continue her hard work and dedication to service.

Mustapha Bittaye, Gina’s Manager, said he was grateful for the partnership he believes will yield fruitful results and development. Gina, he observed, is determined to achieve anything in her strides and efforts. He also thanked Gambians for their support towards Gina. Amira Jagne, first vice president of the Gambia Athletics Association, said Gina’s dedication and exceptional athletic commitment has not only brought honour to The Gambia but have also inspired countless individuals across the nation. “QCell’s decision to sign Gina does not only indicate their commitment to supporting local talents but signifies their dedication to promoting sports and athleticism with the community,” she said, adding that the partnership would not only elevate Gina’s profile at the international stage but would also provide her the necessary support and resources to excel in her athletics pursuits. For her part, Gina Bass gleefully thanked QCell, her family, manager and everyone for their support. source: Thepoint.gm

Two Cabinet ministers Removed, Justice Zainab resigns

His Excellency Adama Barrow, President of the Republic of The Gambia, acting under Section 71(4) (c), today, 12 July 2024, accepted the resignation of Honourable Haddy Jatou Sey, Minister of Basic and Secondary Education, who resigned for personal reasons. His Excellency the President thanked her for her service and wished her all the best in her future endeavours.

In a related development, the President, acting under Section 71(4)(b) of the Constitution, relieved the Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Ousman Bah, of his duties. In the meantime, Professor Pierre Gomez, the Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Technology, will oversee the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education. Dr Ismaila Ceesay, the Minister of Information, will oversee the Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy until further notice. In separate development, High Court Judge Zainab Jawara Alami has resigned. She was reported to have got an international appointment. Source: State House

GRA Generates D10.4 Billion In Six Months

By Abdoulie Nyockeh

Gambia Revenue Authority’s Commissioner General Yankuba Darboe has disclosed that overall revenue generation from January to end June “stands at over D10.4 billion” within six months. He revealed this quantum leap in revenue generation in a recent interview with Peter Gomez’s Coffee Time program at West Coast Radio.

Asked by Peter the amounts GRA collected for the month of May and June, CG Darboe said that over D1.7 billion was generated in May and over D1.5 billion in June. He reiterated the annual revenue target of D19.2 billion in 2024 GRA has been tasked to generate by Government through the Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs. As at end June, which is halfway this year, GRA is left with D8.8 billion to be collected in order to achieve its annual revenue target of 2024, he said. Asked about the secret behind their resounding success, CG Darboe was quick to underscore the efficacy of the digitalization system GRA has introduced. The new digitalization system has contributed immensely to helping GRA leap and improve in revenue collection over recent years. The smart technology introduced had greatly eased and closed some of the major leakages hindering GRA’s revenue collection over the years, the provident Commissioner General confirmed. CG Darboe also recalled the challenges over having the new tech system in place before people or taxpayers in the country could cherish and appreciate some of the reforms GRA has introduced. “At the level of GRA, we are however used to certain emerging challenges from the public,” the astute GRA boss said. “But at the end of the day, people do appreciate more, and some would even say this new technology could have come earlier on.”

He cited the ASCUDA++ to the ASCUDA World, saying when this technology was introduced, there was a lot of hue and cry but at the end of the day people have come to appreciate the system. He further gave an apt reference, saying: “Also, when GRA introduced the digital tax stamp, there was a lot of noise. But today, visit supermarkets, manufacturing companies and factories; they are all using the digital tax stamp. This will help GRA to generate what is meant for Government in fair and transparent manner.”

89 Senegambian Migrants Died In A Boat Crash

According to reports monitored on CNN migrant boat from Gambia Senegal boarder capsized leaving dozens dead At least 89 migrants died when their boat capsized off the coast of Mauritania on Monday, the Mauritanian state-run news agency reported on Thursday. The Mauritanian Coast Guard’s officers recovered the migrants’ bodies who were aboard a large traditional fishing boat when it capsized, the agency said. Nine people were rescued, including a 5-year-old girl, the agency reported. The boat capsized off the coast, in the Atlantic Ocean, about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) from the country’s southwest city of Ndiago, the state-run news organization said. The boat, which left the Gambia–Senegal border six days ago, was bound for Europe and had at least 170 migrants on board, the agency said, citing survivors.

Thousands of West African migrants take on perilous crossings on the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea to reach Europe in search of jobs and opportunities every year. According to a 2024 report by the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the crossing on the Atlantic Ocean is considered incredibly dangerous due to the length of the journey to Europe, “with migrants often stuck at sea for long periods on inadequate boats in areas of the Atlantic Ocean lacking dedicated rescue operations.” This is a developing story and will be updated source cnn

Green Power Investors To Be Refunded Their Monies

Recently Jarranews have reported the police opperation which resulted a closed down of the Green Power Company and the subsequent detention of staff. Following the pooice investigations Investors are asked to report to Kairaba Police Station to collect their monies. According Grren Power Company staff in the company's whatsapp group "The update we sent for everyone (on the day of our detention) is no longer going to be used ... It has been said that each individual should report for him or herself... You should report for you alone... Your investors should report for themselves one by one...failure to report don't expect anything from them. Nobody is detained now.Said a senior staff of the company. "Tell all your investors... And the money you should claim as an investor is only your deposit. The money from wave to the company. No profit or extra investment in City partner should be shown," said a Green Power Staff states in the Company's Staff WhatsApp Group messages today By Jarra News Stringer

Police Investigations At Green House

Developing Story: Green Power Company under police Investigation: Police says they have given all investors one week to come and report to the police station and make your statement in order to get back their money...next week you can be given a chance of three days. Sources said the managers were detain for imvestigation. According to Staff who spoke to jarranews Stringer the police take over Green Power Company currently in a Green Power however this cannot be independently comfirm from the police .

GPA Leader Advices BAC Chairman To Respect Authorities

Dear Chairman Yankuba Darboe and Honourable Councillors, As leaders of the Gambia Action Party, it is our responsibility to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct and respect for the institutions of our government. Recent events have brought to light concerns regarding the actions of some within our ranks. It is imperative that we understand the role of government and the importance of abiding by established programs and policies that serve the interests of our citizenry. As leaders, we must lead by example, demonstrating a commitment to peaceful dialogue and adherence to due process.

Attacking state agents, especially security personnel, is not only unethical but also undermines the rule of law and jeopardizes the safety and security of our communities. We must refrain from engaging in any actions that incite violence or disrupt the operations of those tasked with serving the public good. I urge each of you to focus your efforts on addressing the needs and aspirations of the people we serve. Let us work tirelessly to improve the lives of our constituents and contribute positively to the development of our communities. Furthermore, I implore Chairman Yankuba Darboe and his councillors to refrain from interfering with the activities of those assigned with road expansion and decongestion efforts. Let us respect the mandates entrusted to various agencies and work collaboratively to achieve our common goals. In conclusion, let us remember that leadership is not by wish but by the will of Allah. Let us lead with integrity, humility, and a steadfast commitment to the betterment of our beloved nation. Sincerely, SERVANT MUSA OUSAINOU YALI BATCHILLY Secretary General and Party Leader of the Gambia Action Party, GAP

Mama Yero Saidykhan D Founder of Jarra Kanikunda

Alpha Mama Yerro Khan, a distinguished Fulani scholar, embarked on a transformative journey from Futa Toro in 1797 that would leave an indelible mark on the Islamic scholarly landscape of the Senegambia region. His lineage traced back to the revered companion of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), Salman al-Farisi, who played a pivotal role in the Battle of the Trench by suggesting the strategic digging of a trench around Medina to fend off enemy tribes. In his quest for spreading knowledge and establishing a center for Islamic education, Alpha Mama Yerro traveled to The Gambia. By 1821, he had founded the holy village of Khani Kunda, which would soon become a beacon of learning and spirituality. Khani Kunda thrived under his leadership, providing comprehensive instruction in Islamic sciences and becoming a prominent center for intellectual and spiritual growth. Alpha Mama Yerro Khan’s noble lineage connected him to the great scholastic families of Senegambia, including the renowned communities of Touba, Tivaouane, and Boussobeh of Mbakeh Barri. His family’s influence extended widely, cementing their reputation as custodians of knowledge and spiritual leaders. The legacy of Alpha Mama Yerro Khan was perpetuated by his descendants. His first son, Foday Saidykhan, became the inaugural Imam of Khani Kunda, thus establishing a tradition where the people of Foday Kunda are honored with the Imam title to this day. This lineage of esteemed scholars and leaders continued to flourish, producing notable figures such as Ansu Saidykhan, kang Khalipha saidykhan, Amina Saidykhan, Wassa Isatou Saidykhan, Sotokoi Saidy, Ebrima Free Saidykhan, and Bunangbass Saidykhan, among others. The descendants of Alpha Mama Yerro Khan continue to shine with majesty and nobility, reflecting the profound legacy of their ancestor. The village of Khani Kunda remains a testament to the enduring impact of Alpha Mama Yerro Khan’s vision, serving as a thriving center for Islamic learning and a symbol of the rich scholarly traditions of the Fulani people. Follow for party 2.

Deputy Speaker SK Njie Attends Karoninka Ceremony

The deputy speaker of the national assembly Hon. Seedy SK Njie was elated to represent His Excellency the President Mr Adama Barrow at a ceremony organized by the Salulu Karoninka women association over the weekend in Berending, Gunjur.

Citizens from both The Gambia and Senegal make up the association which is aimed fostering unity and peace among brotherly people of the two countries.

Addeessing the gathering Hon. Seedy SK Njie thanked the women for inviting the president and gave them the president’s best wishes while calling on them to uphold the virtues of the Karoninka culture and transmit these virtues to their offspring.

The Salulu Karoninka women association and the women of Berending presented two traditional staffs to the President. The Mayor of Kafountin, Mr David Diatta, came down for the event.

Over Twelve Persons Arrested With Suspected Cannabis Sativa

The Drug Law Enforcement Agency – The Gambia (DLEAG) said they have recently arrested thirteen people with suspected cannabis sativa and other prohibited drugs. Ousman Saidyba, the Spokesperson of the DLEA-G said 25-year-old Lamin Manga of Kanfenda in Foni and 41-year-old Alfusainey Sanneh of Burom, also in Foni, were arrested by Agents of Sibanor DLEAG station on the outskirt of Bunoborr village with five bundles and one wrap of suspected cannabis sativa that was concealed in cement papers and placed inside a camouflage bag while riding a blue motorcycle with no registration number. He said another 18-year-old Alpha Ceesay of Kaif village in Kiang and a conductor, were arrested by Agents of Banjul DLEA-G station at Half Die, with three wraps of suspected ‘Kush’ which was concealed in white papers. “24-year-old HabibouNjie of SinchuAlagie village got arrested by agents of Bundung DLEA-G Station with fourteen wraps of suspected cannabis sativa, which was concealed in white papers and placed inside a small black bag. 20-year-old Abdourahman Jallow of Sukuta also got arrested by agents of Bundung DLEA-G station with twenty-four wraps of suspected ‘Kush’ which was concealed in an old newspaper and placed inside a medical sachet respectively,” he said. Saidyba said agents of the Banjul DLEA-G unit arrested 41-year-old Matarr Njie of Banjul with five packs and five wraps of suspected cannabis sativa which was concealed in black packs. He said agents of Sifoe DLEA-G station arrested Phillip Mustapha Gomez at the Gunjur beach with three sachets of suspected cannabis ruderalis (skunk) which was concealed in medical sachets. “George Dianko, a resident of Kololi was arrested at Mile II Central Prisons with suspected cannabis ruderalis (skunk). The suspected illicit drug was found in his possession and concealed in a transparent plastic bag respectively,” he said. Saidyba said agents of Sifoe DLEA-G station in Gunjur also arrested 28-year-old Lamin Cham of Sukuta with thirteen pieces of cannabis ruderalis (skunk) which were concealed in foil paper, white paper, and nylon bag respectively. “48-year-old Ebrima Sanka of LatriKunda Sabiji; 44-year-old ModouSanyang of Sinchu Alagie and 43-year-old Adama Sidibeh, a herbalist and resident of Wellingara, were all arrested by agents of Brusubi DLEA-G station in Brufut’s Taf Estate with twenty bundles of suspected cannabis sativa concealed in cement paper and placed in an empty rice bag inside a black BMW X5 with registration number: BJL 5638 S,” he reported. He said Alagie Sillah, a resident of Nemakunku was arrested by agents of Manjai DLEA-G station with twenty wraps of suspected cannabis sativa concealed in white paper and a transparent nylon bag respectively. Accordingly, Saidybah said all the suspects are currently in custody while further investigations continue on their cases

Gambia Press Union Welcome Conviction Of Ousman Sonko

(Banjul, 15 May, 2024) – The Gambia Press Union (GPU) welcomes today’s verdict and sentencing of former Interior Minister Ousman Sonko in Switzerland to a 20-year prison term for crimes against humanity. The Swiss Federal Criminal Court in Bellinzona found Sonko guilty of multiple counts of “intentional homicide, torture and false imprisonment, as well as crimes against humanity”, on Wednesday. Sonko, who earlier denied the charges, was sentenced to a 20-year jail term (minus approximately 7 years already served in custody). He will also be expelled from Switzerland. The Court found Ousman Sonko guilty of the killing of a perceived political opponent in 2000; of torture and illegal detention in connection with a coup plot in March 2006; of the killing of a politician in 2011 and of deprivations of liberty as well as acts of torture – including one killing – of peaceful demonstrators in 2016.

He has been ordered to pay compensation to the plaintiffs according to the prejudices suffered. “During Sonko’s tenure as minister, some of the worst crimes were committed against journalists, including the torture of former journalist Madi Ceesay, and Musa Saidykhan – both working for The Independent Newspaper back in 2006 – over the paper’s reporting of a coup attempt,” GPU Secretary General, Modou S. Joof, said. “Today’s verdict, strongly reflects our wishes and aspirations for justice for dictatorship-era crimes committed against Gambian journalists, and all other victims of grave human rights violations.” Sonko’s conviction and sentencing comes almost six months after Bai Lowe, a former death squad member under ex-dictator Yahya Jammeh, was sentenced to life imprisonment for his role in the murder of journalist Deyda Hydara. The Higher Regional Court of Celle, a northern town in Germany, found Lowe guilty on all charges of crimes against humanity on Nov., 30, 2023, and sentenced him to life imprisonment for the assassination of Deyda Hydara in 2004, the murder of a former soldier in 2006, and the attempted assassination of a lawyer. “These universal jurisdiction cases that have now been concluded in Germany and Switzerland and expected to begin in the USA with the trial of a former death squad member, Michael Sang Correa, have brought a lot of hope for justice for victims of crimes against humanity,” GPU President, Muhammed S. Bah, said. “With steps being taken to establish a tribunal to try Jammeh-era crimes locally, we urge the Gambia government to expedite the process of seeking justice for journalists and all other victims of gross human rights violations suffered during Jammeh’s 22-year dictatorship.” Demba Ali Jawo, who was President of the Gambia Press Union when Ceesay and Saidykhan were arrested and tortured, said: “Indeed, most Gambians, particularly victims of the Yahya Jammeh regime, have welcomed the verdict of the Swiss court, sentencing former Interior Minister Ousman Sonko to 20 years imprisonment.” “We hope this would serve as a lesson to both serving and future public officials that justice would be served to those who violate the rights of the people, no matter how long it may take,” said Jawo, who is currently the Chairman of the National Centre for Victims of Human Rights Violations. “However, some people wish that he should be repatriated to The Gambia to serve his sentence in the same harsh prison conditions that their victims had endured here.”