Judiciary Inaugurates Association Of Commissioners For Oath, Justices of Peace, and Notaries Public
By Landing Ceesay
The Gambian Judiciary, in a significant step towards enhanced legal accessibility, officially established the Association of Commissioners for Oath, Justices of Peace, and Notaries Public. This initiative marks a key highlight of the ongoing 2024 Legal Year Commemoration.
The ceremony witnessed the swearing-in of newly appointed Notaries Public and Commissioners for Oaths and Affidavits, recognizing their crucial roles in the legal system. Commissioners play a vital part in administering oaths and validating documents, while Notaries Public handle vital tasks like endorsing passports and certifying official documents.
Chief Justice Hassan B. Jallow, addressing the association members, emphasized the importance of integrity and service in their endeavors.
“Your appointments are meant to ensure that there is easier access for the man on the street, particularly in respect of authentication or preparation of documents. And we hope that you will rise to the challenge of providing services and providing services in a very honest manner. As Officers of the Court, you are expected to conduct yourselves, with honesty, integrity, and respect for the law. You are there essentially to serve the community. I want you to bear that in mind at all times,” the Chief Justice said.
Commissioners for Oaths hold the official designation of Judicial Officers, responsible for overseeing the execution of vital legal documents like affidavits and statutory declarations. Recognizing the importance of ongoing professional development, the Chief Justice announced a dedicated training program for the Association members. This initiative aims to equip them with a comprehensive understanding of their roles and responsibilities, ensuring they operate within the legal framework and fulfill their duties with utmost integrity and efficiency.
“You will be benefiting from some training on what your duties, are and how you are expected to comport yourselves. The training will commence today. This will just be the beginning of a series of training and activities which we hope to be conducting regularly to benefit all of you and benefit us all in the end,” he said.
Representing the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Mr. Hussein Thomasi, the Legal Secretary and Solicitor General at the Attorney General’s Chambers, urged association members to acquaint themselves with the laws of the land and understand their boundaries.
“To the Commissioners and newly sworn-in officers, on behalf of the Minister, I just want to recognize that you are now very important players in the administration of justice. As prominent citizens, you should recognize your role, in the administration of justice. You should ensure that you familiarize yourselves with the law, and in particular, you should know your limitations. It is very important that you know your limitations, know what is permitted under the law for you to do and what is not permitted for you to do,” Mr. Thomasi said.
Amadou Touray, the Chairperson of the Association, highlighted recent discussions with the Chief Justice, focusing on the allocation of office space and the necessity of adequately furnishing workspaces to ensure efficient execution of responsibilities.
The launch and education of the Association of Commissioners for Oaths and Notaries Public members are integral components of the 2024 Legal Year Celebration.
Simultaneously, the Gambian Judiciary will evaluate the training initiative designed for presidents, members, and scribes of District Tribunals as part of the commemorative activities.
Adding a social element to the occasion, a football match between the Bench and the Bar is scheduled.