NHRC chair says realising ‘Never Again’ slogan depends upon ending impunity

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By BABOUCARR CEESAY

The chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission of The Gambia and a seasoned human rights lawyer, Emmanual Danial Joof has said that the only way to make the ‘Never Again’ a reality is to end impunity.

Joof stated that they are particularly encouraged by the Government’s commitment to fully and effectively implement the recommendations contained in the TRRC Report.

He made this statement on Friday at a press conference unveiling the 2021 annual report of the Commission.

“We would only make the ‘Never Again’ slogan a reality when we end impunity, hold human rights violators accountable and support victims and survivors,” Joof stressed.

He disclosed that the commission investigated alleged cases of human rights violations, published Advisory Notes on pertinent human rights issues, held consultations with relevant State and Non-State Actors to advance the cause of human rights.

As a ‘Public Benefit Entity’, he said the Commission would remain true to its motto ‘Let Justice Guide Our Actions’ and stands ready to be held accountable by the public for its work.

“As we march into 2022, we renew our commitment to making The Gambia a bastion of human rights and a strict upholder of the rule of law and due process,” he assured.

He enunciated that the report highlights the major activities implemented by the Commission in 2021, stakeholders’ assessment of the impact of the activities and/or programmes, partnerships and collaborations forged.

The human rights lawyer believes efforts made are in furtherance of the Commission’s mandate to build a culture of human rights in The Gambia, the lessons learned, challenges encountered and the plans and aspirations for the future.

He expressed delight that 2021 is momentous in the history of the Commission as it marked the commencement of the implementation of our maiden Strategic Plan 2021-2025 which outlines six (6) Strategic Objectives to guide the Commission in its human rights promotion and protection work.

He added that with the Strategic Plan, which is accompanied by both an Implementation Plan and a Resource Mobilisation Plan, the Commission is ready, with the support of partners, to realise its Vision ‘A Gambia where everyone enjoys their fundamental human rights and freedoms’.

He pointed out that significant progress has been registered in 2021, made possible by the strong partnership and collaboration with the Government of The Gambia, CSOs and development partners, and tremendous support and encouragement of the public.

“Efforts were geared towards the creation of a culture of human rights, strengthening of good governance and the rule of law, and enhancing compliance with domestic and international human rights standards and obligations.”

He explained that they also held community outreaches and awareneness programmes, conducted monitoring visits to detention centres, organised trainings for stakeholders and monitored all the phases of the Presidential election.

Emmanuel accentuated: “As a State organ, the Commission would continue to play both its watchdog and advisory roles, safeguarding human rights while supporting the Government in its endeavours to create an enabling, enlarged human rights environment.”