My Lord, the Honourable Chief Justice of The Gambia,

Justices of the Superior and Lower Courts,

Honourable Speaker and Members of the National Assembly,

The Honourable Attorney General and Minister of Justice,

Honourable Cabinet Ministers,

Members of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps,

Learned Magistrates and Cadis,

Members of the Judicial Service Commission and the General Legal Council,

President of The Gambia Bar Association and Members of the Bar,

Distinguished Guests,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I am deeply honoured to preside over the official opening of the 2025 Legal Year. This is an event I annually look forward to with keenness, in view of the unique position the Justice and Judiciary system holds in our Democracy.

The occasion reaffirms, once again, our collective commitment to transforming The Gambia into an enviable democratic nation, championing justice, the rule of law, and good governance. For the Executive, our ambition is not only to improve the dispensation of justice in the country, but also to position The Gambia among the best justice systems in the world. The ongoing comprehensive reforms and strategic investments to strengthen our justice sector are practically fuelled by this vision.

In view of the giant steps taken in this regard, I extend hearty congratulations to the Judiciary of The Gambia, ably led by the Lord Chief Justice, Honourable Hassan B. Jallow. Your collective tireless efforts to enhance access to justice and efficiency are widely acknowledged and appreciated.

The recent introduction, for instance, of advanced court reporting tools and software in the courts is a monumental step towards speedy and impartial access to justice for all. Adopting new state-of-the-art technology has modernised our justice system, leading to more efficient and faster delivery of justice. This visionary approach will undoubtedly strengthen public confidence in our courts.

I also commend the Judiciary’s initiatives to empower district tribunals through training and capacity building, convening magistrates to establish a collective path towards quicker access to justice, as well as educating communities on legal matters. These initiatives are making a substantial difference, particularly for those in the rural area.

My government will remain resolute in its mission to promote and uphold good governance, the rule of law, and democracy. By maintaining a clear separation of powers, we have significantly improved the independence of the Judiciary, thereby restoring public confidence in our legal institutions.

The establishment of additional courts and the appointment of highly qualified judges are concrete steps prompted by our resolute commitment to delivering justice impartially and swiftly.

My Lords, My Ladies, Your Excellencies, Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

Much progress has been made on the transitional justice agenda, moving from policy formulation to meaningful implementation.

Following the release of the White Paper in 2022, my government set in motion mechanisms to ensure justice for victims and accountability for perpetrators of human rights violations. The decision to establish a Special Prosecutor’s Office and a Special Tribunal underscores our determination to address past injustices with transparency and integrity. These efforts are essential to rebuilding trust and fostering a reconciled and united nation.

Along these lines, the recent approval by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Authority of Heads of State and Government to establish the Special Tribunal is another remarkable achievement.

The Tribunal will investigate and prosecute gross human rights violations and international crimes committed during the previous regime, running from July 1994 through to January 2017. This decision is to make sure that there is justice for the victims and survivors of the human rights abuses committed during that period. It is meant to send a strong message that impunity will not be condoned on our shores. By addressing these grave violations, the tribunal will contribute to restoring trust in public institutions and reinforcing the rule of law in the country.

Importantly too, this step aligns with The Gambia's broader transitional justice process, which seeks to redress past injustices, promote societal healing, and foster long-term peace.

The tribunal will also be an essential part of my government's efforts to entrench accountability, justice, and reconciliation, address individual and collective grievances, and contribute to a just and democratic environment for all. For us, transparency and accountability will continue to remain indispensable pillars of good governance. The establishment of the Anti-Corruption Commission illustrates our resolve to combat corruption in all its forms. The Commission will promote integrity within public institutions and reinforce public trust in our governance architecture.

By holding individuals accountable and fostering a culture of transparency, we are taking decisive steps to strengthen the rule of law and ensuring that public resources are managed responsibly for the benefit of all Gambians.

The ongoing security sector reform remains another priority, and we are proud of the progress made in aligning our security services with the principles of the rule of law and human rights. Initiatives, such as enhanced prison conditions, vocational training for inmates, and awareness campaigns on fair trial rights, reflect our comprehensive approach to justice and rehabilitation. These efforts are aimed at reducing repeat offenders and contributing to a safer and more harmonious society.

My Lords, My Ladies, Excellencies, Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

We acknowledge the crucial role that international partners, including ECOWAS and our development partners, play by supporting these reforms. Their collaboration with us is helping to maintain a just democratic society with a justice system that reflects our shared values.

Our vision for The Gambia is bold but achievable. We are laying the groundwork for a justice system that meets global standards. Achieving this vision requires the collective efforts of all stakeholders, and I am convinced that, working together, we will succeed.

It is indeed feasible to transform our justice system into a model of excellence to inspire other nations and ascertain that justice, equality, and fairness prevail for generations to come.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Our successes would not have been possible without the Judiciary’s unwavering dedication to executing their constitutional mandate in a fair and just manner. The lessons of the past remind us of the essence of these principles.

At present, we can proudly claim that our justice system is stronger, fairer, and more accessible than ever, although our work is far from done. We must continue to build a dignified justice system distinguished by the values of fairness, equality, and integrity.

Again, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Judiciary, under the exemplary leadership of the Honourable Chief Justice, for your unwavering commitment to justice and service to the nation.

The achievements of our justice system affirm your hard work and the collaborative spirit of all the actors in the sector, such as the Gambia Bar Association, the National Human Rights Commission, the Ombudsman and, of course, the leadership provided by the Ministry of Justice. Let us remain united in our pursuit of a brighter and more just future for our beloved nation.

While wishing you a very successful year, I declare the 2025 Legal Year officially open.

Thank you for your attention.