Lieutenant Colonel Sanna Manjang has appeared before a General Court Martial as the Gambia Armed Forces begins proceedings against the former senior officer over an alleged nine-year desertion.

The court martial commenced on Monday (September 21) at the Senior Non-Commissioned Officers’ Mess at Fajara Barracks.

Manjang is facing a charge of desertion under Section 53(1)(a) of the Gambia Armed Forces Act, Cap 19:01, Volume IV of the Laws of The Gambia 2009.

According to the particulars of the offence, the military alleges that Manjang, on or about January 21, 2017, absented himself from his duty post at the State Guards Battalion in Banjul.

The charge further alleges that he continued to remain absent for a continuous period of nine years with the intention of deserting.

The allegation will now be determined through the court martial proceedings.

Manjang was arrested on November 29, 2025, in Senegal’s Casamance region, according to Defence Headquarters.

The Gambia Armed Forces also said the senior officer was a member of the group known as the “Junglers” and had been implicated in serious human rights violations.

The General Court Martial is being presided over by a panel of senior GAF officers led by Colonel Ousman Bah as President.

Justice Omar Cham is serving as the Judge Advocate.

The Director of Public Prosecutions, AM Yusuph, or his representatives, assisted by a team of GAF lawyers, will serve as prosecutors.

The accused has been provided with a team of defending officers, although he may inform the Officer-Under-Instruction of the defending officer or counsel of his choice.

The proceedings have been declared open, meaning members of the media and the general public are permitted to attend as appropriate.

The Gambia Armed Forces said the court martial underscores its commitment to justice, accountability, the protection of fundamental rights and respect for the rule of law.

The proceedings will determine the allegations against Lieutenant Colonel Manjang in accordance with military law and due process.

By Adama Makasuba