14/11/2025
Ambassador Hassan Gibril has called on the Gambia government to prosecute former President Yahya Jammeh for treason in his July 1994 overthrow of former President Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara. Coup D’etat is a crime of treason in The Gambia and punishable by life imprisonment.
Ambassador Gibril wrote in an article today: “After the fall of the Greek military junta in 1974, the government prosecuted and convicted the leaders for high treason and human rights abuses, demonstrating a commitment to accountability and the rule of law.
“Argentina's government prosecuted and convicted military leaders for human rights abuses committed during the Dirty War, providing closure for victims and their families.
“The ICTY prosecuted and convicted individuals for war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide committed during the Yugoslav Wars, establishing accountability for international crimes.
“The above examples demonstrate the importance of holding leaders accountable for their actions, regardless of their former status or present position.
“The Gambian government must therefore prioritize justice and ensure that Jammeh faces prosecution for his alleged crimes.
“The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has been helping out in the establishment of a special tribunal to prosecute crimes committed during Jammeh’s rule, thereby demonstrating regional commitment to accountability.
“The international community, including ECOWAS and the African Union must therefore support The Gambia's efforts to hold Jammeh accountable.
“Jammeh's prosecution would be a significant step towards healing and reconciliation in The Gambia.”