Gambia Appoints UK Barrister to Prosecute Jammeh-Era Atrocities

British barrister Martin Hackett has been appointed as The Gambia's inaugural special prosecutor, tasked with pursuing accountability for human rights abuses perpetrated during the 22-year authoritarian rule of former President Yahya Jammeh. This significant appointment marks a pivotal moment for justice in the West African nation, which has grappled with the legacy of widespread repression, enforced disappearances, and extrajudicial killings since Jammeh's exile in 2017.

Mr. Hackett, who previously served with the UN-backed Special Tribunal for Lebanon and investigated war crimes in Kosovo, will lead a newly established office dedicated to these complex cases. His four-year mandate underscores the nation's commitment to addressing the atrocities documented by the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC).

Pursuing Justice for Victims

The TRRC, established to document the extent of alleged abuses, presented its comprehensive final report to President Adama Barrow in 2021. The report not only identified those most responsible for the egregious acts but also unequivocally recommended their prosecution. While phased compensation payments to victims have begun, many survivors emphasise that accountability remains paramount.

Notorious cases highlighted by the TRRC include the 2004 murder of journalist Deyda Hydara and the execution of over 50 mainly West African migrants by security forces. While some perpetrators, including members of the notorious 'Junglers' paramilitary unit, have faced convictions abroad under universal jurisdiction, Mr. Hackett's appointment signals a determined effort to secure justice domestically. Former President Jammeh, aged 60, who denied wrongdoing and refused to cooperate with the TRRC, is believed to reside in exile in Equatorial Guinea after being compelled to relinquish power by regional leaders in 2017.