A prominent Gambian human rights organization has raised alarm over the government’s reported sale of the notorious Mile 2 Central Prison to the Gambia Ports Authority (GPA) for $4 million, demanding full disclosure and accountability in a strongly worded public statement released today.
The Edward Francis Small Centre for Rights and Justice (EFSCRJ) described the transaction as shrouded in opacity, questioning its legality and fairness for a site of immense historical and strategic importance. Mile 2, located on prime coastal land near Banjul, has long been a symbol of repression under former dictator Yahya Jammeh, where political prisoners faced torture and harsh conditions.
Interior Minister Abdoulie Sanyang confirmed the impending sale during a National Assembly session yesterday, stating the $4 million (over D300 million) would fund a new modern correctional facility in Brikama. He emphasized the project aims to create a rehabilitation-focused center aligned with transitional justice goals, estimating total costs far exceeding the sale proceeds and requiring partner funding.
However, EFSCRJ argued that a direct sale without an open tender, public valuation, or parliamentary approval violates the Public Finance Act and the State Lands Act. The group deemed the price suspiciously low for such valuable land and highlighted the absence of any feasibility study or cabinet-approved reform plan.
The organization expressed particular concern over inmate relocation, noting the Interior Minister’s earlier estimate of $20–$30 million for a new prison leaves a significant funding gap. Questions remain about human rights-compliant transfers and the fate of deteriorating facilities in Jeshwang and Janjanbureh.
Mile 2’s dark legacy as a site of abuse has fueled public calls to preserve it as a museum or heritage center for transitional justice. EFSCRJ insists national dialogue should precede any sale.
The group urged ministries and the President’s Office to publish legal justifications, valuation reports, financial plans, and relocation strategies. It also called on the National Assembly to scrutinize the deal.
