“We are appalled that the Gambian authorities carried out the nine executions the 26th August,  a week after President Yahya Jammeh vowed to carry out all death sentences by mid-September. We urge them to ensure that no further executions take place,”

 Honourable Mr President

 We the undersigned, strongly condemn the executions that took place last week in the Gambia, and call for a halt to further executions.

 We are concerned that death sentences were imposed in violation of major international standards, including the most serious crimes provisions.

 According to available evidence, the trials did not meet due process safeguards. The executions were carried out in secrecy, away from the public and from the families, and do not meet the requirements of transparency.

 This stream of executions is a major step backwards for your country, and for the protection of the right to life in the world as a whole.

 with sincere regards