By: Cecilia E.L. Mendy
The Gambian Judiciary on Monday bid farewell to Chief Justice Hassan B. Jallow as he voluntarily retired after decades of service, with judicial officers, government officials, members of the Bar and other stakeholders paying tribute to his contribution to justice, judicial independence and the rule of law.
At a farewell ceremony held in his honour, speakers highlighted Chief Justice Jallow’s leadership in strengthening the judiciary and promoting accountability during his tenure.
In his remarks, Chief Justice Jallow expressed gratitude to his family, friends and colleagues, describing his career as an opportunity to contribute to justice and accountability both nationally and internationally.
He reflected on his role in justice processes following major global tragedies, including genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes in Rwanda, Sierra Leone and the former Yugoslavia.
The Chief Justice said it had been a great honour to contribute to The Gambia’s efforts since 2017 to restore the country’s reputation in governance and the rule of law.
He said significant progress had been made over the past decade in strengthening the judiciary and promoting judicial independence, while acknowledging that more work remains to be done.
“It is best to leave the assessment of that legacy to others to undertake and to do so fairly and locally,” Chief Justice Jallow said.
He urged judicial officers to remain at the forefront of protecting judicial independence and ensuring personal impartiality, stressing that such principles serve the interest of the nation rather than individuals.
“Judicial independence and impartiality are not for their personal benefit. It is for the good of the nation. It is for the welfare of the nation,” he said.
He also called on the Bar, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to continue defending and promoting judicial independence, impartiality and justice.
“They must remain protectors and promoters of judicial independence, judicial impartiality and judicial justice,” Chief Justice Jallow said.
Minister of Justice and Attorney General Dawda Jallow described Chief Justice Hassan B. Jallow’s tenure as one that required balancing political accountability with professional independence.
He said the outgoing Chief Justice handled those challenges with honesty and professionalism, particularly in a small society where personal relationships and public responsibilities often overlap.
The Attorney General said Chief Justice Jallow consistently emphasised that law officers must resist improper influence, avoid conflicts between personal interests and public duty, and treat every citizen’s complaint as a serious call for justice.
He said the Chief Justice’s service demonstrated that the judiciary is an institution built on principles rather than personalities.
As Chief Justice Jallow prepares to leave office at the end of the month, Dawda Jallow said his experience and example would continue to guide members of the judiciary, the legal profession and the State Law Office.
Meanwhile, President of The Gambia Bar Association, Neneh M. C. Cham, described the retirement as historic, noting that it was the first time a Gambian Chief Justice had voluntarily retired.
She said Chief Justice Jallow’s service to the legal profession spans nearly five decades.
Cham said his appointment came at a time when the country was seeking institutional renewal and that his leadership helped restore public confidence in the judiciary.
She commended his calm leadership style, patience and commitment to mentoring young members of the legal profession.