The joint Badinbung Session of Makumbaya and Bafuloto attracted over 100 participants including victims of human rights violations, perpetrators and traditional leaders.
The event was supported by the African Transitional Justice Legacy Fund through the EU and the AU funding.
The forum seeks to promote reconciliation and social cohesion and individual accountability at community levels.
In his welcome remarks, the Executive Director of Beakanyang, Mr. Nfamara Jawneh spoke about the importance of African Transitional Justice mechanisms such as Badinbung in The Gambia.
“We will continue to stand by the victims until their tears are gone. We are in this together. There must be judicial accountability, institutional reforms and reparations to victims,” Mr. Jawneh said.
Chiefs Lamin Mondo Jatta and Lamin Touray of Brikama North and Busumbala District respectively thanked Beakanyang and partners for bringing back the Badinbung concept to West Coast Region.
Meanwhile, during the daylong activity, Lawyer Lamin Sanyang sensitised Badinbung Bantaba participants about the African Union Transitional Justice Policy and Framework.
Victims of past human rights violations particularly witch-hunt victims used the opportunity to share their stories while many people also used the forum to seek for forgiveness.
Imam Omar Bojang of Jambur who also doubles as the chairperson of Badinbung in West Coast and North Bank regions assured community members of their continuous support for the success of Badining project.
He accused chiefs and alkalolu in the past regime of being used by the then government to violate the rights of citizens.
“The practice must stop if we are serious about NEVER Again mantra,” he declared.
