The Gambia Reparations Commission has announced that it has commenced the payment of reparations to victims of human rights violations committed between July 1994 and January 2017.
A press release issued by the Commission said this marks a significant milestone in its mandate to facilitate justice, restore dignity, and support the recovery of victims who endured violations during the specified period.
“Payments are being disbursed in phases and by year of violation, beginning with victims whose violations occurred in 1994. The Commission is actively contacting eligible victims and victim groups to verify information and complete the necessary steps for disbursement,” the Commission said.
“Victims who have not yet completed their registration or updated their details are strongly encouraged to contact the Commission as soon as possible on 7200044, 3434688 or [email protected]. To ensure efficient processing, individuals will be required to provide:
- A valid identification document
- Bank account or Wave details
- Any supporting documentation from the Truth Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC), where applicable,” it requested.
The Commission called on community members, civil society groups, and the general public to assist victims, particularly those in remote areas or with limited mobility, to complete their registration and verification processes.
“The Reparations Commission reaffirms its unwavering commitment to delivering transformative, transparent, and victim-centred reparations in accordance with its mandate,” it assured.
It is recalled that more than 44 Ghanaians and other nationals were killed in 2005 during the Yahaya Jammeh led administration in the Gambia.
Reports indicate that on 22 July 2005, Gambian security forces arrested migrants, who were bound for Europe, after their boat landed in Gambia, on suspicion of involvement in a coup attempt. Almost all the migrants, including about 44 Ghanaians, 9 Nigerians, 2 Togolese, and nationals of Cote d’Ivoire and Senegal, were killed in Gambia or taken across the border into Senegal and shot and their bodies dumped in wells.
Although the press release did not specifically mention the Ghanaian victims, analysts believe that including them will be worthwhile.
