Special Prosecutor

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

Position: Special Prosecutor

Employer: Special Prosecutor’s Office, The Gambia

Location: Banjul, The Gambia

Application Deadline: 30 June 2025

Overview

The Special Prosecutor’s Office (SPO) is responsible for the effective and impartial investigation and prosecution of serious human rights violations and international and domestic crimes, which occurred in the territory of The Gambia between July 1994 and January 2017. The SPO is seeking a qualified individual of high moral character, impartiality and integrity, highly competent in and possessing extensive practical experience in the prosecution or trial of domestic or international criminal cases and a strong reputation for commitment to justice and human rights to serve as the Special Prosecutor under the Special Prosecutor’s Office Act, 2024. The Special Prosecutor is independent and autonomous and not subject to the direction or control of any other person or authority in the exercise of his or her powers or carrying out of his or her functions.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Leadership: Provide strategic direction and leadership to the Special Prosecutor’s Office (SPO), ensuring alignment with its mandate, policies, and procedures.
2. Investigation and Prosecution: Oversee and coordinate investigations into alleged crimes falling within the jurisdiction of the SPO, ensuring thorough, impartial, and effective gathering of evidence. Oversee trial preparation, including the preparation of indictments, witness preparation, protection and support, and coordination with relevant stakeholders.
3. Case Selection: Determine the prioritization and selection of cases for investigation and prosecution based on the gravity of the crimes, the level of responsibility of the suspects, and the interests of justice; Determine which cases to prosecute before the Special Tribunal for The Gambia and which ones before the Special Criminal Division of the High Court.
4. Courtroom Representation: Represent the SPO in court proceedings, including presenting evidence, examining witnesses, and making legal arguments before the judges.
5. External Relations and Cooperation: Foster cooperation and coordination with national authorities, international organizations, and non-governmental organizations involved in international criminal justice, donor States and partners.
6. Outreach and Communication: Engage in outreach activities to raise awareness of the SPO’s work, build support for its mandate, and ensure transparency and accountability in the prosecution process.
7. Resource Management: Manage the human, financial, and material resources of the SPO efficiently and effectively, ensuring the optimal use of resources in pursuit of its mandate. Prepare and carry out the transition of the SPO to the Special Tribunal for The Gambia.

Qualifications:

1. Legal Expertise: Proven expertise in domestic or international criminal law, including significant experience in prosecuting complex crimes.
2. Leadership Skills: Strong leadership and management skills, with the ability to lead a diverse team of legal and other professionals in a high-pressure environment.
3. Integrity: Demonstrated commitment to the highest standards of integrity, impartiality, and ethical conduct.
4. Communication Skills: Excellent communication and advocacy skills, with the ability to effectively represent the SPO in a variety of settings.
5. Interpersonal Skills: Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with colleagues from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds.
6. Languages: Fluency in English is required.
7. Experience: A minimum of 15 years of experience in the prosecution or trial of serious domestic or international criminal cases, preferably at the international level, is required.
8. Education: Advanced degree in law (e.g., LL.M., J.D., or equivalent) is required. Additional qualifications or specialized training in international criminal law or related fields are highly desirable.

How to Apply  

Interested candidates should submit their applications, including a cover letter and CV, to posttrrc@moj.gov.gm keeping bids@posttrrc.com in cc by 30 June 2025.