Rédaction Africa Links 24 with babucarr balajo
Published on 2024-03-25 09:35:00
The government is set to implement the recommendations of the Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparations Commission (TRRC) by removing individuals responsible for human rights violations during the previous regime from public office. President Adama Barrow signed the Ban from Public Office Act 2023 into law in January, following its approval by the National Assembly.
The Ban from Public Office Act will enforce the TRRC’s recommendations to ban certain officials, particularly from the security sector, from holding public office for specific periods of time. Ida Persson, the special adviser on transitional justice at the Attorney General’s Chambers and Ministry of Justice, stated that prior to the enactment of the law, the ministry had instructed all relevant institutions to place the recommended individuals on administrative leave.
Since the law came into effect in January, the Ministry of Public Service is responsible for its implementation. The Ministry of Justice will provide guidance to ensure compliance with the law. The process of relieving individuals from their positions may involve forced retirements, dismissals, or other measures determined by the Ministry of Public Service.
According to Persson, the government has accepted the recommendation to ban 40 officials from holding public office. These officials include 18 from the Gambia Armed Forces, 5 from the Gambia Police Force, 9 from the National Intelligence Agency (now State Intelligence Services), as well as individuals from the Ministry of Justice, Ministry for the Interior, Office of the President, Office of the Vice President, and a private citizen who has been barred from holding any government position.
Persson, a legal and transitional justice expert, stated that the implementation process could be completed within six months. The Ministry of Public Service will notify the individuals affected by the ban and ensure they receive any outstanding payments for their services. She expects that by the end of the year, these individuals will be removed from public office and banned for the specified duration.
Regarding concerns about amnesty for the individuals recommended for banning, Persson clarified that the Ban from Public Office Act does not include provisions for amnesty. The focus is on enforcing the recommendations of the TRRC and holding those responsible for human rights violations during the former regime accountable.
Overall, the government’s commitment to implementing the TRRC recommendations through the Ban from Public Office Act demonstrates its dedication to transitional justice and accountability for past injustices. By taking decisive action to remove individuals responsible for rights violations from public office, the government is working towards building a more just and inclusive society in The Gambia.
Read the original article on The Standard
