By Ramatoulie Jawo
Members of Parliament (MPs) today began a three-day workshop on the recommendations of the Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparations Commission (TRRC ).
The workshop scheduled to end on Sunday is organised by the National Human Rights Commission, The Gambia, and supported by the Standing Committee on Human Rights and Constitutional Matters of Parliament.
The engagement aims to enhance the understanding of the members of Parliament on their role in the implementation of the TRRC recommendations with support from the NHRC, CSOs, and victim-led organisations.
Speaking at the occasion, Deputy Speaker, Hon. Seedy SK Njie who presided over the opening ceremony described the activity as timely.
He said the event would enhance their knowledge on the Government White Paper on the TRRC report, and other mechanisms related to the transitional process instituted by the Government.
“Therefore, as people’s representatives, it is vital that we understand the content of the Government White Paper on the TRRC report to enable us ensure that “Never Again” will the human rights abuses committed in the past reoccur in the history of our country,” he said.
“You may recall that in December 2017, the Assembly passed legislations establishing the TRRC and the NHRC. Since then, we have witnessed the tremendous work done by these two institutions within a short period,” he said.
The deputy speaker added that it is also encouraging that after the enactment of TRRC Act and completion of its work, they are gathered today to engage and better understand the outcome of its work to make informed decisions regarding the TRRC recommendations.
Hon. Njie said as a Parliament and the apex oversight institution of the State, it is their pride to partner with the National Human Rights Commission and Women in Leadership and Liberation.
“The National Human Rights Commission, Government, the National Assembly and all relevant stakeholders must now work together to ensure smooth implementation process, “he ugred.