President Adama Barrow officiated the commencement of the 2025 legal year yesterday at the law courts buildings in Banjul.
The yearly gathering united individuals from the executive branch, the legislature, the judiciary, and important stakeholders in the justice sector.
President Barrow stated that the event reinforces their shared dedication to transforming The Gambia into a respected democratic nation, promoting justice, the rule of law, and good governance.
“For the executive, our goal is not just to enhance the delivery of justice in the country, but also to establish The Gambia as one of the leading justice systems globally.” He noted that this vision particularly fuels the ongoing comprehensive reforms and strategic investments aimed at strengthening our justice sector.
He also emphasised the progress achieved in the legal sector, noting that the adoption of cutting-edge technology has transformed the justice system, resulting in a more efficient and quicker delivery of justice.
Attorney General and Minister of Justice Dawda Jallow stated that the previous year has been marked by “significant progress and formidable challenges” for his office and the ministry.
“In the face of these challenges, we have continued to be unwavering in our commitment to uphold the rule of law, foster good governance, and safeguard the fundamental rights of every citizen.” “Our achievements reflect the commitment and perseverance of the diligent professionals and support staff within the ministry,” he added.
He also recognised the accomplishments and the tasks that are still pending in the judicial sector.
“A major accomplishment for us has been our unwavering battle against sexual and gender-based violence. By implementing focused prosecutions and raising public awareness, we have conveyed a strong message that these crimes will not be accepted in The Gambia. Furthermore, the continuous digitisation of our case management system has started to change the way we manage cases, improving transparency, efficiency, and accountability,” he emphasised.
He also noted that progress has been made in the TRRC implementation plan, adding that “the government’s five-year implementation plan is underway, and the establishment of the hybrid court in collaboration with Ecowas underscores our commitment to justice and accountability for past atrocities.”
Chief Justice Hassan Jallow emphasised the volume of cases registered in the years 2023 and 2024.
“As of January 1, 2024, we commenced the legal year with a total of 6,317 cases, which reflects a carryover from 2023.” Throughout 2024, there were 6,678 new cases filed. He highlighted that, in addition to the carryover of new cases filed, there were 4,849 civil cases and 1,826 criminal cases of various kinds.
He also noted that the total of 6,678 indicated a 25% increase compared to the cases registered in 2023.
“This significant increase is something we must consistently consider, not just in terms of resolving these cases, but also in examining their origins, the circumstances that contribute to them, and in seeking alternative methods for prevention and resolution beyond the judicial system.” He further highlighted that the total number in our docket for 2024 was actually 12,995 cases.
