By: Fatou Krubally
The Edward Francis Small Centre for Rights and Justice (EFSCRJ) has welcomed the acquittal of Ousainou Bojang and his sister, Amie Bojang, and called on the government to take urgent measures to address what it described as a grave miscarriage of justice.
In a statement issued on 31 March, the Centre commended the ruling of Justice Ebrima Jaiteh, who on 30 March acquitted and discharged the two after more than two years of trial.
Ousainou Bojang had been charged in connection with the killing of Police Intervention Unit (PIU) officers, while his sister was accused of being an accomplice.
EFSCRJ described the verdict as a victory for justice and a reaffirmation of judicial independence, but stressed that the ruling should mark the beginning, not the end, of accountability.
The organisation said the prolonged trial had caused significant harm to the siblings and their family, including stigma, psychological trauma and reputational damage.
According to the Centre, the decision by investigators and prosecutors to pursue the case despite evidence presented in court raises serious concerns about the conduct of state institutions.
It said the arrest, detention and prosecution of the Bojangs point to broader systemic shortcomings within law enforcement and the justice system.
The group called on the government to publicly acknowledge the court’s decision and to initiate an independent and transparent inquiry into the handling of the case.
It also urged the authorities to hold accountable any officials found responsible for misconduct and to provide adequate compensation and reparations to the victims.
Furthermore, EFSCRJ called for a fresh and independent investigation into the killings of the PIU officers to ensure that those responsible are identified and brought to justice.
The Centre cautioned against any appeal of the judgment, warning that such a move would prolong the suffering of innocent citizens.
It emphasized that meaningful reforms in policing and prosecution are necessary to restore public confidence and prevent similar injustices in the future.