The Edward Francis Small Centre for Rights and Justice issued a formal letter to the President today. Adama Barrow is urging immediate action to investigate recent police conduct in the West Coast Region and the tragic death of Mr. Omar Badgie.
The incidents occurred in Mandinari and Lamin on September 26 and 27, 2025, amid circumstances involving law enforcement that have raised serious questions about accountability and human rights. EFSCRJ emphasizes that these events potentially violate fundamental rights protected under the 1997 Constitution, including the right to life (Section 18), personal liberty (Section 19), dignity (Section 21), freedom of assembly (Section 25), and equal protection under the law (Section 28). The Gambia is also bound by international obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
In the letter, EFSCRJ calls on the President, as Head of State and Chief Executive, to fulfil his constitutional duty by ensuring justice, transparency, and protection for all citizens. Specifically, the organization urges:
1. Establishment of an Independent Presidential Investigation Committee: To examine police conduct during the events, the circumstances surrounding Mr. Badgie’s death, and systemic issues related to the use of force and accountability. This committee should be led by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and include representatives from the Gambia Bar Association, civil society, and other independent stakeholders.
2. Ordering a Coroner’s Inquest: In accordance with the Coroners Act, to formally determine the cause and manner of Mr. Badgie’s death, ensuring transparency and justice for his family and the nation.
3. Identification and Suspension of Involved Officers: Suspend all police personnel implicated in the Mandinari incident and publicly release their names, ranks, and mugshots to demonstrate the inquiry’s legitimacy, transparency, and independence.
“This is a critical juncture for The Gambia’s commitment to justice and human rights,” said Madi Jobarteh, Executive Director of EFSCRJ. “The death of Omar Badgie under police-involved circumstances demands swift, impartial action to hold perpetrators accountable and prevent further erosion of public trust. We stand ready to collaborate with the government to uphold the rule of law and protect the rights of all Gambians.”
EFSCRJ warns that failure to address these issues could undermine national peace, deepen mistrust in state institutions, and exacerbate tensions. Copies of the letter have been sent to key stakeholders, including the Speaker of the National Assembly, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, the National Security Advisor, the Inspector General of Police, the Chair of the National Human Rights Commission, and the President of the Gambia Bar Association.
