Ousman Sonko: crimes in Gambia and trial in Switzerland

Justice for Gambian victims

All our news articles and expert analyses dedicated to the trial of Ousman Sonko, former Interior Minister of The Gambia. Sonko was prosecuted in Switzerland for alleged crimes against humanity between 2000 and 2016. From January 8th to January 30th, the hearings before the Federal Criminal Court in Bellinzona have offered poignant testimonies on allegations of sexual violence, murders, and the repression of opposition demonstrations. While the accused could expose his version on the alleged facts. This historic trial has tried to shed light on some of the dark chapters of recent Gambian history and to bring justice to the victims. Justice Info helps explaining what is at stake through the expert coverage of the trial by its Gambian correspondent.

Sonko trial in Switzerland: former Gambian Interior Minister Ousman Sonko found guilty of crimes against humanity, including the murder of Solo Sandeng. Photo: Fatoumata Sandeng, daughter of Ousman Solo Sandeng, holds a sign reading “I am Solo”.

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Ousman Sonko gets maximum punishment

The trial against former Interior minister of The Gambia, Ousman Sonko, came to a wrap on May 15. The Swiss Federal Court of Bellinzona handed him a 20-year prison sentence for crimes against humanity. This is the highest sentence that can be given under Swiss law. Whilst lawyers of plaintiffs and activists described this as […]

By Mariam Sankanu (in Bellinzona, Switzerland)