The Gambia will utilize funds received from the United States following the forfeiture of former ruler Yahya Jammeh's property to compensate victims of his regime. The Gambia's Reparations Commission announced that it has received $2.5 million (£1.86 million) from the sale of a mansion in Maryland owned by the former leader.
Background
In 2022, the US secured the right to sell the property on the grounds that it was acquired through "criminal proceeds and misappropriated Gambian public funds." Jammeh ruled The Gambia for over 20 years after seizing power in a 1994 coup, a period characterized by numerous allegations of human rights abuses, forced disappearances, and extrajudicial killings.
Recent Developments
On Tuesday, the Gambia Reparations Commission expressed its satisfaction, stating it was "pleased to inform victims, survivors and the public that it has received a total of $2,573,414.10" from the sale of Jammeh's property. The Commission emphasized its commitment to managing the funds responsibly and transparently, ensuring that the rights and needs of victims and survivors are prioritized.
