By Dawda Baldeh
The Gambia Action Party (GAP) welcomes and applauds the successful joint security operation between The Gambia and the Republic of Senegal, which led to the long-awaited arrest of Sanna Manjang, one of the most feared and notorious operatives of the former regime under Yahya Jammeh.
Musa Ousainou Yali Batchilly, GAP leader, described the arrest as a turning point in the pursuit of justice, accountability, and closure for the victims and families who endured untold suffering during one of the darkest chapters in our nation’s history.
Manjang has been extensively mentioned before the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC) as a direct participant in heinous crimes, including extrajudicial killings, torture, enforced disappearances, and politically motivated executions.
Among the most painful cases linked to his name is the execution of the respected journalist and press freedom advocate Deyda Hydara.
GAP commends the Armed and Security Services of both nations for their vigilance, professionalism, and cooperation in bringing this fugitive to justice. However, the party emphasized the importance of maintaining heightened vigilance and proactive engagement in apprehending other individuals involved in similar acts.
“This arrest must not be treated as an isolated victory, but rather as the beginning of an uncompromising pursuit of every perpetrator who has evaded justice,” GAP said.
GAP further urged President Barrow and his administration to demonstrate strong political will by ensuring that this process does not end with arrest, but progresses toward prosecution, repatriation of fugitives, and full legal accountability.
“The government must now move swiftly to implement the TRRC White Paper without delay, as justice delayed remains justice denied. Those found responsible must face the consequences of their actions through transparent judicial processes grounded in the rule of law,” Batchilly emphasized.
He noted that the families of victims, including Deyda Hydara, the students massacred in April 2000, political prisoners, and countless unknown individuals subjected to torture, humiliation, and inhumane treatment, continue to live with pain and unanswered questions.
“Their trauma cannot begin to heal while those responsible walk freely and unbothered.
A meaningful reconciliation process requires justice as its foundation, for without accountability there can be no closure, no healing, and no guarantee that similar tragedies will not recur,” he stated.
Batchilly further explained that the arrest of Sanna Manjang symbolizes hope for justice, but stated it must now be followed by action that reinforces public confidence in the judicial system, strengthens national security, and restores dignity to those who were victimized.
By Dawda Baldeh The Gambia Action Party (GAP) welcomes and applauds the successful joint security operation between The Gambia and the Republic of Senegal, which led to the long-awaited arrest of Sanna Manjang, one of the most feared and notorious operatives of the former regime under Yahya Jammeh. Musa Ousainou Yali Batchilly, GAP leader, described The Fatu Network
