Today, our team visited the village of Mandinari to commiserate with the family of Omar Badgie, a victim of police brutality, and to hold discussions with the family in the interest of justice and accountability for Omar. We met the family of Omar, including his father, Malang Badgie, stepmother, uncles, aunts, siblings, and community members, as well as members of the village committee established to oversee the affairs of the case, led by Ebrima John. Omar’s uncle, Toumani, received us.
We expressed our condolences and introduced the mission and objectives of EFSCRJ, for which the incidents that took place in Mandinari and Lamin on September 26 and 27, leading to the death of Omar, directly concern us. We informed the family that, apart from paying our respects, our visit was aimed at standing in solidarity with them to support their efforts in seeking and obtaining justice. We reminded them of their rights as citizens to seek justice for Omar, as well as highlighting the state’s obligations to ensure justice and accountability for Omar. We informed them that we have written to the President and relevant authorities at home and in the international community, demanding justice and adherence to due process.
The family informed us about their efforts in seeking an autopsy and their concerns and interests in ensuring there is proper and efficient delivery of justice. They spoke of the instrumental role and contribution Omar was playing in the life of the family and for his father, who has been sick. Our Executive Director, Madi Jobarteh, reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to supporting the family and advocating for due process, transparency, and accountability in all matters related to the case.
We found the family still in deep grief over the unnecessary and unjustified killing of their child. We deplore the fact that low-income families and communities like Badgie Kunda and the rest of Mandinari, who are contending with poor public infrastructure, facilities, and services, have also to endure such injustice and trauma. The State must be a protector of rights and deliver services, rather than violating and denying citizens.
As we continue to engage in this matter, EFSCRJ urged the Government to ensure that,
1. The family of Omar Badge is adequately informed and consulted on all issues relating to this case.
2. Provide all necessary psychological and socioeconomic support to the family.
3. There is adequate, accurate, and timely information available to the public to ensure transparency and accountability.
4. The due process is upheld diligently and efficiently, leading to justice being done.
We will continue to monitor the situation and engage with the family and other stakeholders to ensure not just justice for Omar but a total end to police brutality in the Gambia.
