Rédaction Africa Links 24 with babucarr balajo
Published on 2024-02-29 09:18:00
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has recently released its 2023 State of Human Rights Report, highlighting key recommendations for the government to improve human rights and governance in the country. One of the major recommendations put forward by the NHRC is for the Independent Electoral Commission to consider holding parliamentary and local government elections on the same day. This suggestion comes in response to the dwindling voter turnout observed following the 2021 presidential election.
In addition to electoral reform, the NHRC has advised the government to allocate adequate financial resources to implement decisions outlined in the truth commission white paper. The commission also stressed the importance of expediting the passing of the Peace, Reconciliation, and Reparations Bill to address past grievances and promote healing within the society.
Furthermore, the report calls for the implementation of recommendations provided in the Acute Kidney Injury Presidential Task Force Report. The NHRC has also urged the government to expedite the passing of crucial bills such as the Special Prosecutions Office Bill 2023 and the Special Accountability Mechanism Bill 2023. Additionally, the commission has emphasized the need to domesticate international conventions, including the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearances.
Another critical recommendation made by the NHRC is for the government to conduct a comprehensive review of laws and regulations governing the issuance of import licenses for pharmaceutical products. The commission has also called for strengthening the Medicines Control Agency to ensure the quality and safety of medicinal products in the country.
In terms of anti-corruption measures, the NHRC has highlighted the importance of enforcing and implementing the Anti-Corruption Act 2023. The commission has urged the prompt establishment of the Anti-Corruption Commission and raised awareness about corrupt practices to prevent and punish offenders. Additionally, the NHRC has emphasized the need to implement recommendations from audit reports of the National Audit Office to address mismanagement and misappropriation of public funds.
The NHRC has also recommended measures to prevent torture, including the implementation of the Prevention and Prohibition of Torture Act 2023. The commission has urged the government to establish a standard minimum wage to determine eligibility for legal aid and invest in infrastructure for the Special Prosecutor’s Office and the hybrid court.
Moreover, the NHRC has called for the expansion and equipping of more courts across the country to expedite trials and hearings and ensure the effective functioning of the Judiciary Prisons Visiting Committee. The commission has emphasized the importance of upholding freedom of speech and expression, repealing outdated sections of the Criminal Code, and respecting court rulings and decisions.
Overall, the NHRC’s recommendations aim to promote good governance, uphold human rights, and enhance accountability within the government. It is imperative for the government to consider and implement these suggestions to foster a more inclusive and just society for all citizens.
Read the original article on The Standard
