The government-backed Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC) has asked victims of the Jammeh dictatorship to submit their reparation applications.

Victims are asked to start submitting application by March 1. 

The Commission however said the application must be in relation to its mandate, which should include “acts of torture, unlawful killings, sexual and gender-based violence, enforced disappearances of persons, inhumane and degrading treatment, arbitrary arrest and detention without trial.”

“All complaints must be submitted, in writing, to the TRRC, this can be done in person at the TRRC premises or during outreach missions, or via electronic communications,” the TRRC said.

“Where it is deemed by the Commission that the complainant does not qualify for victim status, this decision will be communicated to the complainant in writing stating the reasons why it was not approved.

“For complainants or victims who cannot read, a staff member of the TRRC will assist in reading the decision to such complainants.

“Complaints may be Individual or collective. Collective reparations may be received by a group of persons that suffered violations or abuses due to one or more reasons relating to their group identity.  

“An individual or group whose application has been rejected can resubmit the complaint after providing additional information and supporting material.

“This call is an urgent appeal by the TRRC for complainants to submit their complaints within the specified period so that reparations are granted on a fair and transparent basis without any form of discrimination.”

Reporting by Adama Makasuba