By Haddy Touray
The Gambian government has officially launched the candidacy of Hon. Justice Veronic Wright for election as a judge of the International Criminal Court (ICC) during a ceremony held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on 19 June 2026.
The launch was conducted by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad, H.E. Sering Modou Njie, on behalf of the Gambian government through the Permanent Mission of The Gambia to the United Nations.
In his address, Minister Njie thanked President Adama Barrow and the Government of The Gambia for endorsing Justice Wright’s candidacy, describing the move as a demonstration of the country’s commitment to international law and the role of judicial institutions in preventing atrocity crimes and promoting accountability for serious international offences.
He highlighted The Gambia’s contribution to the advancement of international criminal justice, citing the country’s genocide case against Myanmar before the International Court of Justice, as well as its engagement within ECOWAS and the African Union on issues relating to accountability and justice.
The minister also referred to ongoing national efforts to address past human rights violations identified by the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC), stressing the government’s commitment to justice and accountability.
Minister Njie called on the international community to support Justice Wright’s candidacy, noting her experience with international criminal tribunals, accountability mechanisms and service within The Gambia’s judiciary. He described her as a candidate who embodies integrity, independence and impartiality.
Speaking at the event, Justice Wright expressed gratitude to President Barrow and the government for their confidence and endorsement.
She outlined her vision for the ICC, saying she would work towards a court that places victims and survivors, including survivors of sexual violence and children affected by conflict, at the centre of its proceedings.
Justice Wright stressed that the legitimacy of judicial decisions depends on the fairness and integrity of the processes through which they are reached.
The Ambassador and Permanent Representative of The Gambia to the United Nations, H.E. Lamin Dibba, delivered a statement on behalf of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dawda Jallow, while Counsellor and Legal Adviser Marang Sanyang read a statement on behalf of Justice Cherno Jallow, KC, of the Supreme Court of The Gambia. Both officials were unable to attend the ceremony.
The event was attended by permanent representatives, legal advisers, election officials and representatives of States Parties and non-States Parties to the Rome Statute.
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