A leading Gambian rights organization has accused the government of leaving a string of high-profile investigations in limbo, saying the public has been given little or no information on cases involving deaths in custody, alleged medical negligence, military corruption and the disposal of state assets.
In a statement issued on 18 September 2026, the Edward Francis Small Center for Rights and Justice (EFSCRJ) said it had been tracking inquiries announced by public institutions, some of which have dragged on for more than a year.
“Investigations cannot promote accountability if their outcomes are withheld from citizens,” the group said.
Among the cases it highlighted is the death of Omar Badgie, 27, of Mandinari, who died on 26 September 2025 after an encounter with police. A coroner’s inquest in April 2026 found he died from an acute brain injury caused by physical exertion, stress and assault by officers. The Chief Justice sent the report to the Attorney General and Director of Public Prosecutions, but EFSCRJ said the public has not been told whether anyone has been charged.
The group also pointed to the death of activist Ebrima Gassama at Brikama Health Center on 30 August 2026 after a severe asthma attack, amid claims that a power cut disrupted oxygen or other treatment. The Ministry of Health announced an investigation the following day but has not published terms of reference, membership, a timetable or any update.
President Adama Barrow ordered an inquiry on 3 June 2026 into social-media allegations against former Chief of Defense Staff Lt. Gen. Mamat Cham involving corruption, abuse of office and misuse of military resources. Cham later left office, yet the government has not disclosed the inquiry’s composition, findings or any action taken, EFSCRJ said.
The National Assembly Special Select Committee submitted its report on the sale of former President Yahya Jammeh’s assets on 29 May 2026 after finding alleged irregularities including undervaluation and conflict of interest. The government has not said which recommendations it accepts or what steps it has taken to recover assets or hold officials to account.
A Local Government Commission of Inquiry that examined council finances from 2018 to 2023 delivered its report to the President on 11 May 2026. Neither the report nor a White Paper has been published.
The group also cited the Kamalo industrial layouts, where the Lands Minister told Parliament in March 2026 that Cabinet had approved an investigative report, yet the “master file” remained missing. The full findings have not been released.
EFSCRJ called on the President and relevant institutions to publish completed reports, give status updates and state what disciplinary or criminal action has followed. “Silence after announcing an investigation undermines public confidence, denies justice to victims and their families, and enables impunity,” it said.
