The Gambia National Human Rights Commission expresses concern over matters affecting public order
Banjul, Gambia (PANA) - The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Monday expressed concerns over country matters affecting public order, renewing its commitment to promote and protect human rights in The Gambia.
In a statement made available to PANA here, the commission said several issues relating to and affecting human rights had been and continued to be monitored.
The statement, signed by Emmanuel Daniel Joof, chairperson the NHRC, stressed that key concerns included civil society engagement with law enforcement and respect for rights guaranteed by the constitution, such as the right to assembly, freedom of expression and rule of law.
“As our country transitions to a more democratic society, our law enforcement agencies will be faced with situations which would oblige them to uphold standards that do not compromise human rights and freedoms, while maintaining order, security and peace.
“The NHRC is aware of interactions between The Gambia Police Force and 3 Years Jotna (3years has reached) Concerned Citizens which, if not properly addressed, may lead to misunderstanding and disruption of public order,” the statement said.
The statement added: ”Consequently, on Wednesday, 8th January, 2020, the Commission initiated a separate dialogue with both the Inspector General of Police and Executive members of the 3 Years Jotna Concerned Citizens.”
The statement said the meetings were neither supportive nor dismissive of the demands and concerns of 3 Years Jotna Concerned Citizens, or convened to castigate or admonish the police.
The statement revealed that it was a dialogue to hear the concerns of the parties, encourage the nurturing of peace and order, and emphasize respect for and protection of constitutional and fundamental human rights by all and sundry.
“Protests, among other forms of civil engagement, are fundamental features of a functioning democracy.
“The Gambia Police Force performs the critical and challenging role of creating both a conducive environment, while maintaining order and the protection of people and properties.
“It should be emphasized that the State, however, bears the primary obligation to respect, protect and fulfil the fundamental rights of everyone living within its jurisdiction without discrimination or any other considerations,” the statement said.
The statement pointed out that civil society organisations were encouraged to employ avenues that were governed by the laws of The Gambia and to act responsibly in their engagements and exercise of fundamental human rights.
The NHRC urged the government and the populace to draw lessons from the revelations of the ongoing Truth Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC) to build a society that was founded on fundamental rights and freedoms, the rule of law, constitutionalism and due process.
The NHRC is an independent institution established by an Act of National Assembly in 2017 to protect and promote human rights in The Gambia. The Commission is open to the general public and can receive, investigate and provide human rights redress to complainants
-0- PANA MSS/RA 13Jan2020
