Victims Raises Concern Over Withdrawal of Murder Charge Against Former Jungler Sanna Manjang

Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The Alliance of Victim-Led Organizations (AVLO) has expressed concern over the Ministry of Justice’s decision to withdraw the murder charge against former Jungler Sanna Manjang while proceeding with a charge of assault causing actual bodily harm.

In a statement, AVLO said it recognises that prosecutorial decisions must be guided by available evidence and legal strategy. However, it voiced concern over the possibility of Manjang being granted bail, noting that his bail application is scheduled to be heard on 28 July 2026.

Concerns Over Bail

The organisation said that although every accused person is entitled to the presumption of innocence and the protection of the law, the circumstances of the case require the court to carefully consider the concerns of victims and survivors of human rights violations allegedly committed by the Junglers.

According to AVLO, many victims and survivors fear that Manjang’s release could have physical, psychological, and emotional consequences. It noted that the Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparations Commission (TRRC) identified Manjang as a key member of the Junglers in its findings.

The group warned that granting bail could undermine victims’ sense of security and discourage their participation in ongoing and future accountability processes.

AVLO urged prosecutors to place all relevant information before the court during the bail hearing to enable a comprehensive assessment of any risks associated with granting bail.

Call to Strengthen Accountability

The organisation also called on the government to expedite the operationalization of the Special Prosecutor’s Office (SPO), arguing that the office was established to lead prosecutions for crimes committed during the Jammeh era.

Reaffirming its commitment to supporting victims and survivors, AVLO stressed that accountability for past human rights violations remains essential to restoring public confidence, strengthening the rule of law, and securing a peaceful democratic future for The Gambia.

The organization further called on all relevant institutions to remain steadfast in the fight against impunity.