Gambia’s Jammeh to Face Justice Upon Return to Nation He Ruled for 22 Years

In his 22-year grip on power, Mr. Jammeh has been accused of rights abuses and cracking down on his opponents. His supporters credit him for bringing “rapid development” especially on infrastructure. (Photo Credit: MENjie/MansaBanko)

The exiled former dictator, who is accused of massive human rights violations, will be prosecuted upon return, the Gambia government said in a statement on Tuesday.

Yahya Jammeh, who now lives in Equatorial Guinea since his election defeat to Adama Barrow in 2016, announced to his supporters on Sunday that he will return in November 2025 via an audio recording played on loudspeakers at a rally in his home village, Kanilai, 118 kilometres west of the Gambian capital, Banjul.

In 2021, a Gambian truth commission found Jammeh responsible of murder, rape and torture during his 22-year rule.

“If and when Mr. Jammeh returns, robust legal processes will be activated in line with The Gambia’s laws. This will include investigation, arrest, and prosecution, with a guarantee of due process, fair trial standards, and respect for the rights of all involved,” the government said.

  

Written by Modou S. Joof 

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