Hon. Jawara opened the debate with a stark reminder of Jammeh’s 22-year rule, the human rights abuses documented by the TRRC, and at least 240 deaths linked to his regime. He warned that Jammeh’s provocative public statements from exile were rekindling fear, shaking public confidence, and threatening national security. “Jammeh can never again be president of this country,” he declared, insisting the government must take a firm stance.
Giving her submission, nominated Member Fatoumatta K. Jawara, dismissed Jammeh as a brutal dictator who deserves no national attention. She mocked those with false hopes of Jammeh’s return, saying he now lives chatting with monkeys and goats. She vowed that a small group cannot destabilise this country, insisting the Gambian people fought hard to dislodge Jammeh and will not allow him to regain influence.
Besides, Hon. Samba Jallow of Niamina Dankunku supported part of the motion, saying Jammeh’s method of return through rallies and political mobilisation raises legitimate concerns. Yet he argued that what is known can no longer be called a threat. According to him, the government must simply decide on its position.
He stressed that Jammeh should follow diplomatic channels, not mobilise supporters in Kanilai. Still, he emphasised that Jammeh remains a citizen with a right to be heard, especially since no warrant has been publicly issued. He also cautioned members against declaring who can or cannot rule The Gambia, calling it unfair and undemocratic.
Hon. Assan Touray of Bakau warned that if Jammeh attempts to return in the provocative way he suggested, the situation could be bloody. He urged diplomacy and verified information, noting reports though unconfirmed that Jammeh was in Nigeria. He said the government must maintain the confidence of citizens by responding decisively and responsibly.
Hon. Sheriff Sarr member for Jeshwang argued that Jammeh’s return could actually benefit victims. “The victims want justice,” he said. “If he wants to come, let him come and face the law.”
He dismissed fears over Jammeh’s strength, insisting the former president no longer holds power and could not enter without government permission anyway. He emphasised that Jammeh should be treated as a citizen who must answer before the law like anyone else.
Hon. Musa Badjie of Tallinding Kunjang, rejected claims that Jammeh poses any national security threat. “Is he coming with guns?” he asked, accusing the motion of exaggeration and exposing government inaction.
He criticised the slow implementation of TRRC recommendations, arguing that if justice had begun long ago, Jammeh’s location, Gambia or Equatorial Guinea would not matter. He also suggested Jammeh could return strategically ahead of elections.
Hon. Lamin Ceesay, of Kiang West accused the government of hypocrisy, benefiting from Jammeh’s 22-year political structures while now labelling him a danger. He argued that the focus should be on adequately funding victims’ reparations rather than debating Jammeh’s return. He noted that the government approved only a fraction of the Victims Reparation Commission’s request.
Hon. Alhagie S. Mbowe of Upper Saloum grounded his argument in the Constitution, citing Section 69 and calling on Parliament to initiate a formal motion enabling potential prosecution. “If we are serious about justice, now is the time.”
He insisted Parliament must clear the legal path for the executive to act on Jammeh’s alleged crimes.
