UK impose sanctions against Gambian former president and first lady

The United Kingdom has announced sanctions against former Gambian president Yahya Jammeh  and his wife, Zineb Jammeh, for human rights breaches, torture and murder.

“Today’s sanctions send a clear message to human rights violators that the UK will hold them to account,” UK Foreign Minister Dominic Raab said.

“The UK and our allies are shining a light on the severe and systematic human rights violations perpetrated by those sanctioned today.

“Global Britain will stand up for democracy, human rights and the rule of law as a force for good in the world.”

Former Gambian president Yahya Jammeh has been pinpointed for killings of protesters and minority groups.

During his rule from 1996 to 2017, he was accused of widespread abuses including killings and forced disappearances, as well as stealing millions of dollars from the country’s finances to fund a luxurious lifestyle.

He went into exile in Equatorial Guinea in January 2017 after losing the presidential election, which he refused to accept. The Gambia’s neighbours sent in troops to force him out.

His wife, Zineb Jammeh, was accused of corruption and assisting his regime.