In a significant step toward addressing past atrocities, the Reparations Commission, established under the Victims Reparations Act 2023, was officially sworn in before the President at the State House today. Tasked with managing a reparations fund to compensate victims of human rights violations during the Jammeh dictatorship, the Commission holds broad powers to ensure effective and fair distribution of reparations.
The Edward Francis Small Centre for Rights and Justice (EFSCRJ) warmly welcomed the Commission’s formation, pledging full cooperation to help it succeed. “We stand ready to support the Commission in fulfilling its mandate,” the group stated, emphasizing the urgent need for justice for victims who have endured decades of suffering.
The EFSCRJ called on the government to provide adequate resources and respect the Commission’s independence so that it could operate efficiently. It also urged Commission members to uphold professionalism, transparency, and accountability, stressing that their work carries a “sacred and historic responsibility” to prioritize victims’ interests.
Today’s swearing-in coincides with the 25th anniversary of the tragic killing of Gambian children protesting for justice, a somber reminder of the long wait for accountability. “Twenty-five years is too long,” the EFSCRJ noted, highlighting the ongoing physical and psychological pain of victims since 1994, with others suffering since 2016. The group underscored that while reparations cannot fully restore what was lost, they are critical to alleviating suffering and restoring dignity.
“Reparations are not just financial but symbolize justice, ensuring past atrocities are remembered and not repeated,” the EFSCRJ declared, reminding the Commission that history will judge its efforts. The group concluded by extending best wishes to the Commission, urging it to serve as a beacon of moral and practical healing for The Gambia’s wounded society.
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