An Ex-Gambian Minister Challenges His Sentence For Crimes Against Humanity In Switzerland/Image @qiraatafrican.com
A Swiss appeals court on Monday began hearing a case involving former Gambian interior minister Ousman Sonko, who is challenging his 2024 conviction for crimes against humanity linked to the rule of ex-president Yahya Jammeh. The proceedings are taking place at the Federal Criminal Court’s Higher Appeals Chamber in Bellinzona, where Sonko appeared alongside several plaintiffs and witnesses.
Sonko was found guilty in May 2024 of charges including homicide, torture, and unlawful detention. The ruling marked a significant moment, as he became the most senior former official ever prosecuted in Europe under universal jurisdiction, a legal principle that allows courts to try grave international crimes regardless of where they were committed. He is contesting the verdict over alleged offenses that occurred between 2000 and 2016, during his time as interior minister before being dismissed by Jammeh.
His lawyer, Philippe Currat, argued that many of the accusations predate Switzerland’s relevant laws, which only came into force in 2011. In a statement, he said, “The conditions for criminal prosecution are not met.” Currat also noted that Sonko has already spent more than nine years in detention.
Meanwhile, both prosecutors and plaintiffs have filed appeals seeking a harsher punishment. They want Sonko’s 20-year sentence extended to life imprisonment and broadened to include charges of sexual violence, for which he had previously been cleared. Benoit Meystre, a legal adviser with TRIAL International, emphasized that “Sexual violence was a tool of repression in the Gambia and that should be taken into account and recognized by the Court as such.”
Observers say the case could have wider implications for accountability efforts in The Gambia. Reed Brody of the International Commission of Jurists, who works with victims of Jammeh’s regime, said the trial may support ongoing attempts to bring justice for past abuses in the West African country.
The appeal hearings are expected to run until at least April 17. Although a further appeal could follow the court’s decision, such proceedings would typically be conducted without public hearings.
By: Andrews Kwesi Yeboah