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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.