Sanna Manjang, once a commander of a notorious death squad, has appeared in a military court in The Gambia. He is charged with deserting the army in 2017, coinciding with the conclusion of Yahya Jammeh’s two-decade-long rule. Manjang’s trial marks a significant step in addressing past military abuses and accountability in the country.
Yahya Jammeh’s regime, which lasted from 1994 to 2017, was characterized by widespread human rights violations, including enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings. Death squads operated under his government to suppress dissent, making Manjang’s role particularly controversial. The trial reflects ongoing efforts by The Gambian authorities to confront this dark chapter and restore justice.
In a significant development for transitional justice, this case could set a precedent for prosecuting former military personnel involved in abuses during Jammeh’s tenure. It also highlights the challenges faced by The Gambia in reforming its security sector and rebuilding public trust. Meanwhile, the international community continues to monitor these proceedings as part of broader human rights advocacy in the region.
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