The Batokunku Homeowners Association (BHA) has filed a lawsuit against the Gambian government. They assert that their rights to develop their properties have been unjustly denied and are seeking compensation for almost 20 years of land seizure. The lawsuit is directed at the Minister of Local Government and Lands as well as the Attorney General, alleging violations of property rights as outlined in the 1997 Constitution.
Representing 40 homeowners, the BHA states that the Ministry of Lands frequently denies requests for development permits. They are asking the High Court to rule that this denial is unconstitutional, to issue an order for the permits, to recover legal expenses (GMD 1,200,000), and to receive compensation for damages (GMD 12,000,000).
Despite some setbacks, Justice Isatou Janneh has recently reviewed the case. Affidavits detail the background of land confiscation and the discrimination faced by BHA members in comparison to other property owners. The BHA aims to safeguard their investments and tackle past injustices.
