Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Eljamel Inquiry Opens With Libya Search and Warning Over Patient Support

Counsel warned that failures in the parallel review risk weakening evidence from traumatised patients.

Overview

  • Counsel said investigators sought to contact Sam Eljamel in Misrata, phoning and emailing Misrata Medical Centre in April and May and sending a 28 May letter to Al-Nadha Hospital, but received no reply.
  • The inquiry has 158 core participants, including 133 former patients and representatives for 19 more, with NHS Tayside, the Scottish Government and Healthcare Improvement Scotland also involved.
  • Jamie Dawson KC criticised the Independent Clinical Review for lacking staff and structure to support applicants in producing statements and urged urgent action from the health secretary.
  • Lawyers including Joanna Cherry KC highlighted insufficient legal and mental-health support for patients engaging with the ICR and flagged concerns about the completeness of medical records.
  • Opening statements are scheduled for late November, with evidential hearings from 9 February 2026, as the Patients Action Group welcomed the step as overdue and pressed for stronger powers to compel regulators.