President Adama Barrow has officiated the swearing-in ceremony of the Commissioners of the newly established Gambia Reparations Commission at State House, marking a pivotal step in the nation’s transitional justice journey. In a powerful address, Barrow reaffirmed his government’s commitment to delivering reparations to victims and survivors of human rights abuses committed under the former regime from 1994 to 2017.
The Reparations Commission stems from the Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparations Commission (TRRC) findings, which documented grave violations between 2019 and 2021 through testimonies from over 390 witnesses. The TRRC’s final report detailed widespread crimes and abuses during the previous government’s 22-year rule, prompting Barrow’s administration to pledge accountability and redress.
“Reparation is a moral and legal obligation, based on the principles of justice and fairness,” President Barrow declared, emphasizing that compensating victims is a right under international law and essential for national healing. “If there are no serious attempts to heal the wounds of the past, we may never find closure and move forward in unity to attain our development goals.”
Addressing the Commissioners directly, Barrow congratulated them on their appointments and underscored the historic weight of their mandate. “The task ahead is huge, and it means a lot not only for the victims and survivors but also for the entire nation,” he said, noting the global interest in The Gambia’s transitional justice efforts.
The President assured the Commission its independence, promising no government interference while pledging annual funding to the Reparations Fund. He also committed to supporting efforts to secure additional financial and technical resources to ensure the Commission’s success.
In a heartfelt message to victims and survivors, Barrow acknowledged their prolonged suffering and the injustices they endured. “My government acknowledges the crimes committed against you, together with the suffering that you and your families and communities have been going through,” he said, urging them to support the Commission’s work.
The Victims Reparations Act, described by Barrow as a comprehensive framework, equips the Commission with the authority to execute its duties impartially. The President expressed confidence in the Commissioners’ ability to deliver, commending their willingness to serve and earn trust within the nation.
Closing his remarks, Barrow voiced hope that The Gambia would never again require such commissions, signaling a desire for lasting peace and unity. “While wishing the Commission resounding success, I pray that we never again have the cause to set up any Commission like the TRRC or this Reparations Commission,” he concluded.
The establishment of the Reparations Commission represents a landmark moment for The Gambia, as it seeks to address past wrongs and pave the way for reconciliation and national progress.
