The Government of The Gambia has formally launched the candidacy of Hon. Justice Veronic Wright for election as a judge of the International Criminal Court (ICC), underscoring the West African nation’s deepening commitment to global justice and accountability.
The high-profile launch took place on Friday, June 19, 2026, at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. It was officiated by Gambia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Gambians Abroad, H.E. Sering Modou Njie, on behalf of the Permanent Mission of The Gambia to the UN.
In his keynote address, Minister Njie expressed gratitude to President Adama Barrow and the Gambian government for endorsing Justice Wright’s candidacy. He described the move as a reflection of The Gambia’s “strong and unequivocal commitment” to international law and the fight against atrocity crimes.
Njie highlighted Gambia’s distinguished track record in advancing international criminal justice. He pointed to the country’s landmark genocide case against Myanmar at the International Court of Justice, its active roles within ECOWAS and the African Union, and ongoing domestic efforts to deliver justice for victims of human rights violations documented by the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC).
The minister urged the international community to give strong consideration to Justice Wright, citing her extensive practical experience with international criminal tribunals and accountability mechanisms, as well as her distinguished service on Gambia’s highest courts. He emphasized her proven integrity, independence, and impartiality as key qualifications for the role.
Justice Veronic Wright, in her response, thanked President Barrow and the government for the confidence placed in her. She outlined her vision for the ICC, placing victims and survivors — particularly those of sexual violence and children affected by conflict — at the center of the Court’s work. “The legitimacy of every judgment rests upon the fairness of the process that produced it,” she declared.
Statements were also delivered on behalf of Attorney General and Minister of Justice Hon. Dawda Jallow by Ambassador and Permanent Representative H.E. Lamin Dibba, and on behalf of Supreme Court Justice Hon. Cherno Jallow, K.C., by Counselor and Legal Advisor Ms. Marang Sanyang.
The event drew attendance from Permanent Representatives, legal advisors, election officers, and other representatives of both States Parties and non-States Parties to the Rome Statute.
The launch marks a significant step in Gambia’s diplomatic push to secure a seat on the ICC bench, reinforcing the country’s reputation as a champion of international justice. The election of ICC judges is expected later this year.
