Dr. Morris Tidball-Binz, UN Special Rapporteur on Extrajudicial, Summary or Arbitrary Executions, concluded a two-week mission across The Gambia to evaluate the nation’s transitional justice process. He noted, "What the Gambian people have achieved in setting up the TRRC and implementing its recommendations stands as a model of best practice not only for West Africa but for the world." Regarding journalists, he stated, "These are just two dramatic examples of the risks faced by Gambian journalists, who continued their vital work despite threats, arrests, and torture." While observing that "old habits die hard," he added, "At least full impunity has not prevailed. This sends a strong message."
Legacy of Past Violations
Deyda Hydara, a co-founder of The Point, was assassinated in 2004. His killing remains a central point of concern regarding the historical safety of media professionals in The Gambia.
Ebrima Manneh, who served as a chief reporter, was arrested in 2006. He was never seen alive again following his detention by state authorities.
Christoph Heyns, a former UN Rapporteur, attempted to investigate human rights conditions in the country during a 2014 visit. The Gambian government denied him access to several locations, including Mile Two Prison. These incidents characterize the environment that preceded the current transitional justice efforts.
Ongoing Challenges and Incidents
The Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC) was established in The Gambia to address past human rights violations. The commission served as a primary mechanism for the government to investigate systemic abuses and provide a forum for victims to share testimonies regarding state-sponsored violence. Its mandate included identifying perpetrators and recommending reparations for those harmed under previous governance.
Security forces engaged in a confrontation in Faraba Banta in 2018, resulting in the Faraba Banta shooting. The incident involved the use of live ammunition against local residents, leading to multiple casualties. The event remains a point of scrutiny for human rights organizations monitoring the transition from the previous political era to the current state of reform.
Omar Badjie died in September 2025. His death occurred as the nation continued its efforts to finalize the implementation of the TRRC recommendations. Authorities have not disclosed further details regarding the circumstances surrounding his passing.