President Barrow Swears In Reparations Commission, Vows Justice for Victims of Human Rights Violations

President Adama Barrow has officially inaugurated the Commissioners of The Gambia Reparations Commission, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to ensuring accountability, justice, and restitution for victims and survivors of past human rights violations.

Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony, President Barrow reminded attendees of the critical work carried out by the Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparations Commission (TRRC), which between 2019 and 2021 investigated atrocities committed under the former regime from July 1994 to January 2017.

“The TRRC heard directly from over three hundred and ninety (390) witnesses, many of whom were victims and survivors of those violations,” President Barrow stated.

He highlighted that the final TRRC report confirmed “grave human rights violations and crimes” over the 22-year period of the dictatorship. In response, the government pledged to ensure that all individuals responsible are removed from office, banned from holding public office, or prosecuted in accordance with the law.

Emphasizing his long-standing stance on reparations, the President declared:
“I have continually reiterated my position on the payment of reparations for both the victims and survivors of the said human rights violations.”

He further stressed that reparations are not just a moral duty but a legal obligation under international law.
“We strongly believe that reparation is a moral and legal obligation, based on the principles of justice and fairness. It is the right of every victim and survivor under international law to be duly compensated whenever it is the right thing to do,” he added.

Barrow underscored the importance of confronting the past as a means of uniting the country.

“If there are no serious attempts to heal the wounds of the past for the sake of national healing in The Gambia, we may never find closure and move forward in unity to attain our development goals,” he warned.

Congratulating the newly appointed Commissioners, the President called their appointment a “historic development” and urged them to carry out their duties effectively.
“The task ahead is huge, and it means a lot not only for the victims and survivors, but also for the entire nation,” he told them.

Reinforcing the Commission’s independence, Barrow assured them of the government’s backing without interference.
“Whilst you are recognised as an independent Commission and shall be allowed to exercise your mandate without any interference from my government, I take this moment to assure you that you can count on us, whenever necessary.”

He also revealed a tangible commitment to the Commission’s success, “My administration will commit funds annually to the Reparations Fund. Furthermore, we will support your efforts to mobilise additional resources, technical and financial, for the smooth operations of the Commission.”

Turning to the victims and survivors who have endured years of pain and delay, President Barrow offered a heartfelt promise, “On a brighter note, today marks another milestone in the dispensation of justice in The Gambia. My government acknowledges the crimes committed against you, together with the suffering that you and your families and communities have been going through all these years.”

Calling for collective support, he encouraged Gambians to rally behind the Commission, “To guarantee their success, I urge you to rally behind the Commission and its leadership.”

In his closing remarks, the President expressed hope that this moment would mark the end of an era of such inquiries.

“I pray that we never again have the cause to set up any Commission like the TRRC or this Reparations Commission.”