Conviction of Former Gambia Interior Minister for Crimes Against Humanity in Switzerland

SOURCE www.breitbart.com
Former interior minister of Gambia convicted in Switzerland for crimes against humanity over repression by country's security forces against opponents of longtime dictator Yahya Jammeh. Ousman Sonko sentenced to 20 years in prison, highest-level former official ever to be tried in Europe under universal jurisdiction.

Key Points

  • Ousman Sonko convicted in Switzerland for crimes committed during his time as interior minister under Yahya Jammeh
  • Verdict reached under universal jurisdiction principle
  • Sonko sentenced to 20 years in prison for supporting, participating in, and failing to stop attacks against regime opponents

Pros

  • Justice served for victims of crimes against humanity in Gambia
  • Setting a precedent for holding high-level officials accountable under universal jurisdiction

Cons

  • 20-year sentence may not fully compensate for the atrocities committed
  • Potential political implications on relations between Switzerland and Gambia