By JarranewsTV Staff Reporter
At the prestigious halls of the United Nations Headquarters in New York, Honourable Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dawda A. Jallow, delivered a resounding and confidence-filled address that reaffirmed The Gambia’s unwavering commitment to justice, accountability, and sustainable peace.
Speaking before the Peacebuilding Commission (PBC), the Justice Minister conveyed the strong appreciation of President Adama Barrow’s government for the continued global support that has accompanied The Gambia’s remarkable democratic transition since the end of authoritarian rule nearly a decade ago.
The statement highlighted The Gambia as a shining example of how political will, people-centered governance, and international partnership can transform a nation once gripped by repression into a beacon of democratic progress.
A TRANSITION ROOTED IN THE WILL OF THE PEOPLE
Hon. Jallow underscored that since 2017, The Gambia has undergone an extraordinary transformation marked by peaceful elections, strong institutional reforms, and groundbreaking legislation. Central to this progress has been the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC), which courageously brought to light the truth about past human rights violations.
The government, he emphasized, has demonstrated unmatched political resolve by accepting nearly all recommendations of the TRRC and launching a comprehensive implementation plan spanning five years, involving dozens of institutions and hundreds of activities.
“This is not just a commitment on paper—it is a living, breathing national mission,” the Minister asserted.
DELIVERING JUSTICE: FROM PROMISES TO ACTION
In a bold demonstration of action over rhetoric, the government has already established key legal and institutional frameworks to deliver justice and reparations.
Among the landmark achievements is the creation of the Victims Reparations Commission and Fund, backed by consistent government funding. President Barrow has elevated reparations to a “super priority,” ensuring that victims and survivors receive the recognition and support they deserve.
On accountability, The Gambia has broken new ground with the establishment of a hybrid Special Tribunal in partnership with ECOWAS, alongside the Special Prosecutor’s Office and critical legislation to bar perpetrators from public office. These measures position The Gambia as a global model for post-conflict justice.
HONEST ABOUT CHALLENGES, DETERMINED TO SUCCEED
While celebrating significant progress, Hon. Jallow maintained a tone of transparency, acknowledging that challenges remain—particularly in funding and the pace of implementation.
Out of 263 recommendations, dozens have already been fully implemented, with many more in progress. The government, however, is not resting on its laurels.
“We will not allow this process to stall,” he declared firmly, signaling renewed urgency in accelerating delivery and strengthening communication with the Gambian people.
A major hurdle remains the financial cost of fully implementing the transitional justice agenda, estimated at $150 million. Yet, even in the face of global economic pressures and declining donor support, the government is actively mobilizing resources and forging new partnerships.
A CLEAR STRATEGY FOR THE FUTURE
Looking ahead, the government is finalizing a comprehensive National Strategy for Transitional Justice and Peacebuilding for 2026–2027. This strategy aims to shift the country from planning to tangible, visible results that every Gambian can see and feel.
Key priorities include operationalizing the Special Tribunal, accelerating reparations, deepening community reconciliation, advancing security sector reforms, and completing outstanding legislation.
This strategic clarity reinforces The Gambia’s determination not only to complete the transition but to set a global standard.
A CALL FOR GLOBAL SOLIDARITY
In a passionate appeal, Hon. Jallow called on the international community to match The Gambia’s commitment with sustained political and financial support—particularly for the Special Tribunal and reparations programs.
“The architecture is in place. What we need now are the resources to deliver justice,” he emphasized.
He further positioned The Gambia as a model for other nations navigating similar transitions, ready to share its experiences in truth-seeking, reconciliation, and institutional reform.
AN IRREVERSIBLE JOURNEY FORWARD
Closing his address, the Justice Minister delivered a powerful message of resolve: The Gambia’s journey toward justice and peace is irreversible.
With strong leadership, a resilient population, and growing international recognition, the country continues to move forward—determined to ensure that the painful chapters of its past will never define its future.
“The Gambia has shown that where there is political will, there is always a way,” Hon. Jallow concluded.
And as the world watches, The Gambia stands firm—committed, determined, and unshakably on the path to justice.
Watct out for the full text of the Minister’s speech
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