The Gambian government warned ex-leader Yahya Jammeh against returning to the country. In a leaked recording of a conversation between Jammeh and an official from his party, the Alliance for Patriotic Reorientation and Construction (APRC), Jammeh demanded that authorities respect his right to return.
Following a 22-year-long rule, Jammeh was forced into exile in 2017 after losing the 2016 presidential election to Adama Barrow. He has been in Equatorial Guinea ever since.
At the time of his exile, the African Union, Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), and the United Nations all urged the Gambian government to respect his security, rights, and his right to return.
His supporters organized a rally demanding his return last year; it is believed that the rally was orchestrated by Jammeh from Equatorial Guinea. Another demonstration is planned for January 16.
Simultaneously, the Morrow government has continued efforts to prosecute him. The Justice Minister said that Jammeh must be charged for stealing over $1 billion dollars and for atrocities committed during his tenure.
The Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC) set up a tribunal to investigate abuses under his rule. They have called on over 190 witnesses, and documented testimony on torture, murder, rape, and witch hunts.
The government has also failed to provide any assurances for his safety or security should he return to the Gambia without permission. In fact, a government spokesman indicated that President Barrow never signed an agreement requiring Jammeh to return from exile.
Presidential elections are scheduled for 2021. APRC and Jammeh supporters hope that Jammeh will return to contest and reassume control of the Gambia.
Image Source: World Politics Review