By Mahzouba Maya Faal
The commissioners and staff of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) last week had engagement with the Vice President of The Gambia, His Excellency Mohammed B.S Jallow at State House, on a number of vital human rights issues. The Vice President had the opportunity to acquaint himself with the Commission’s roles and mandate.
The Chairperson of NHRC, Mr Emmanuel D. Joof, expressed satisfaction with the meaningful interaction. “We also took the opportunity to thank His Excellency the Vice President and the Gambia Government for the support that they have given to this commission. It is during the tenure of this government that the National Human Rights Commission Act is enacted and assented to; and also, the commissioners of the commission were sworn in by His Excellency President Barrow,” he stated.
Established by the NHRC Act 2017, the National Human Rights Commission marks The Gambia’s first-ever National Human Rights Commission with a mandate to promote and protect human rights. One of its key functions is to investigate violations of any human right, either at its own initiative or through complaints from individuals or groups.
Additionally, the Commission formulates guidelines, policies, and Standard Operating Procedures to ensure that state institutions, including law enforcement, adhere to human rights standards consistent with the rule of law and justice.
