Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The Association of Victim-Led Organizations (AVLO) has strongly criticized Gambia Moral Congress leader Mai Ahmad Fatty over his recent remarks questioning the government’s decision to allocate D4 billion for the prosecution of former president Yahya Jammeh and others implicated in human rights violations.

Fatty, a former Interior Minister and legal practitioner, had earlier described the move as unwise, suggesting the funds could be better spent on victim welfare and national development.

In a statement shared with The Standard, AVLO — a coalition of civil society groups championing justice for victims of the Jammeh regime — expressed profound disappointment over Fatty’s remarks, describing them as a gross oversimplification of the need for accountability and justice.

AVLO Chairperson Ms. Sirra Ndow stated, “While I appreciate Mr. Fatty’s concern for the welfare of victims — no doubt well-intentioned — it is especially disappointing coming from a legal professional who, more than most, should understand the critical role criminal prosecutions play in securing justice, truth, and national healing.”

Ndow reminded Fatty that the Special Tribunal’s $60 million budget (approximately D4 billion) is not earmarked solely for the prosecution of Yahya Jammeh. Rather, it encompasses the cases of 68 individuals, including members of the infamous Junglers hit squad, who were found by the Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparations Commission (TRRC) to be criminally liable for gross human rights abuses.

“This is not a singular pursuit,” she said, “but a broader effort toward justice and accountability.”

She further argued that Fatty’s comments ignored a key reality: that justice — especially criminal prosecution — is an essential form of reparation. “Justice and accountability are not separate from the needs of victims. They are a critical part of the healing process,” she emphasized.

Ndow also addressed concerns about the cost, noting that the $60 million represents about 40% of the total budget for the TRRC’s five-year implementation plan. According to her, the funds will serve a wider purpose beyond courtroom proceedings. “They will help build legal and institutional capacity, develop infrastructure, and strengthen both the judiciary and security sectors,” she said.

“These investments will yield long-term benefits for Gambian democracy and reinforce the very reforms recommended by the TRRC,” Ndow added.

Underscoring the importance of criminal trials in curbing impunity, Ndow noted, “Prosecutions reaffirm the rule of law, deter future abuses, and help prevent cycles of revenge and retribution. Without justice, there can be no sustainable peace or reconciliation.”

She concluded by challenging Fatty’s assertion from a victim’s standpoint, pointing to data that show broad public support for justice. “As of 2024, over 78% of Gambians — including victims and their families — support the prosecution of perpetrators of human rights violations under Jammeh’s regime, up from 68% in 2018, according to Afrobarometer.”

Ndow emphasized that victims are fully aware of their material needs — such as medical care and education — but remain resolute that justice is not a luxury. “It is a fundamental part of their healing and dignity,” she concluded.

Source: The Standard