By Adama Makasuba
Architect of the 1994 coup has told the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission that he regretted for choosing former president Yahya Jammeh to lead the military council as he admitted responsibility to human rights crimes.
Edward Singhatey, former vice chairperson of the AFPRC regime, who continuing his testimony on Thursday said: “I feel regret for installing Jammeh in the council and even sustaining him in the council after the takeover, not knowing that he would be re-elected. Anyone who suffered under Jammeh, I beard responsibility in those pain and sorrow; I am not here to run away from responsibility. No! I own up my responsibility 100%.”
Mr Singhatey who worked in Jammeh’s regime for over a decade added that: “what we were ordered to go and quashed the coup and make sure no prisoner was left behind,” adding that “I am equally criminally liable.”
Despite admitting to committing human rights crimes, he said the crimes were committed by all the junta members collectively, he said “I was there I was in the line but I didn’t shoot” adding that “…. but remember these people wanted to kill us, they wanted to kill our families.”
“They were kept in the cell; I believe these were Dot Faal and Basiru Barrow who were put on the truck and transported to Fajara barrack, they were brought to Fajara barracks and they were executed,” adding “…. day break Lieutenant Sanna Sabally requested the prisoners be brought, when the prisoners were brought up, they were lined up and two of them were shot death by the soldiers and the others fled.”
He however appealed to their families for forgiveness, adding that “even if this goes to a court, this will be presented and I will stand in the court and say we are responsible and we executed…. Not initially but in the execution yes, I did.”
Meanwhile, Mr Singhatey’s testimony is expected to continue on Monday
