Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Mr. Gaye TheVoice
Published on 2024-02-27 09:46:14
In the pursuit of upholding and advocating for human rights in The Gambia, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) recently took a significant step by validating the 2023 State of Human Rights Report. This report, as mandated by Section 33(2) (a) and (b) of the NHRC Act 2017, outlines the current state of human rights in the country and recommends necessary measures to ensure the effective promotion, protection, and realization of these rights.
The 2023 report delves into a variety of human rights issues that transpired throughout the year. These include major incidents such as the fatal shooting of two police officers at the Sukuta Traffic Lights and the gruesome murder of a 17-year-old in Barra, which significantly impact the right to life and integrity of individuals. Additionally, the report addresses the prevalence of corruption and its detrimental effects on human rights and fundamental freedoms in The Gambia.
Furthermore, the report sheds light on cases of torture and inhumane treatment perpetrated by both state agents and private individuals. It highlights instances of arrests of social media influencers and human rights activists, as well as the maltreatment of a resident’s niece in Nema-Su. The report also criticizes the abuse of power by state agents in the prolonged detention of suspects beyond the constitutional 72-hour limit.
In terms of access to justice, the report acknowledges the Judiciary’s efforts in developing a five-year Strategic Plan to enhance the dispensation of justice in the country. However, it also points out persistent challenges that hinder access to justice for marginalized groups, such as women, the poor, and individuals in rural communities.
Moreover, the report discusses developments in the healthcare sector following the Acute Kidney Infection (AKI) incidents and urges the government to implement the recommendations put forth by the Presidential Task Force. It also addresses the dire situation of mental health patients in The Gambia and calls for the implementation of decisions made by the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights in relevant cases.
Despite the enactment of the Persons with Disabilities Act 2021, persons with disabilities in The Gambia continue to face various challenges, including stigmatization, discrimination, and limited access to social services and employment. The report also highlights issues related to economic, social, and cultural rights, such as the high cost of living, inflation, and environmental degradation, which impede the enjoyment of these rights.
In conclusion, the NHRC’s 2023 State of Human Rights report emphasizes the need for all state actors and businesses to adhere to the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, regulate the fisheries sector, and address illegal fishing practices in Gambian waters. Despite receiving 71 human rights violation complaints in 2023, the NHRC has investigated 45 cases and recommended appropriate remedial actions, while 26 cases are currently under investigation at various stages of the complaint handling process.
Read the original article on The Voice Gambia
