The Gambia appointed a special prosecutor Wednesday, nearly two years after creating the role to pursue accountability for crimes committed during Yahya Jammeh’s authoritarian rule.
British lawyer Martin Hackett, experienced in war crimes and genocide cases, was named to lead prosecutions tied to decades of alleged abuses, the Justice Ministry announced.
A national truth commission found that between 240 and 250 people were killed by state forces during Jammeh’s 1994–2017 rule, alongside torture and kidnappings.
Officials said delays in filling the position followed lengthy consultations and administrative procedures, despite criticism from lawmakers and civil society demanding faster justice for victims.
Parliament approved legislation in April 2024 establishing the Special Prosecutor’s Office to pursue cases identified by the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission and support a special court.
Hackett’s four-year renewable mandate includes prosecuting 70 suspects recommended by the commission, which investigated widespread abuses and heard testimony from nearly 400 witnesses nationwide.
He is expected to arrive before the end of the month, signalling renewed momentum in efforts to confront one of West Africa’s darkest political chapters.
International prosecutor Reed Brody praised Hackett’s background in complex war crimes and sexual violence cases, saying such expertise is vital for sensitive and historically significant prosecutions.
Justice Minister Dawda Jallow said Hackett must submit annual reports to the president, parliament, ECOWAS and the attorney general to ensure oversight and transparency.
Jammeh lost power after the December 2016 election to opposition leader Adama Barrow and fled into exile in Equatorial Guinea, where he remains today.
The truth commission’s 2021 report recommended prosecuting Jammeh and dozens of alleged perpetrators, laying the foundation for long-awaited judicial proceedings seeking justice and national reconciliation.
ECOWAS later backed plans for a hybrid Special Tribunal for The Gambia, though funding challenges continue to delay its establishment and operational launch.
