By: Modou Touray
At the Opening of the 83rd Ordinary Session of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, held at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Center on Friday, May,2nd 2025, the Minister of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services—representing the Attorney General—reaffirmed The Gambia’s unwavering dedication to human rights.
Minister Ceesay called for unity, dignity, and justice, Emphasizing the need for reparations and the importance of protecting the rights of all, especially marginalized groups.
“Let us recommit to justice, equality, and the sanctity of life. May our discussions lead to lasting impact for people across the continent.”
He reflected on past human rights abuses during The Gambia’s 22-year dictatorship. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to justice and reconciliation, including implementation of the TRRC report, prosecution of violators, and victim reparations.
Hon. Remi Ngoy Lumbu, Chairperson of the ACHPR, declared: “Africa is sick. The illness has a name – failure to protect human and peoples’ rights by governments and other actors.” He thanked the President of The Gambia for hosting the session and urged unified action in response to security crises in Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso, and the DRC.
The Executive Secretary of the ACHPR on behalf of the Commission. Mrs. Hannah Foster, speaking on behalf of the NGO Steering Committee, shed light on widespread human rights violations in countries such as South Sudan and the DRC. She praised the efforts of NGOs and international partners working to safeguard civilian rights and deliver justice for victims.
Dr. Joseph Whittal, Chairperson of the African National Human Rights Institutions, joined virtually and addressed the AU’s 2025 theme: “Justice for People of African Descent through Repatriation.”
H.E. Immaculada Roca I Cortes, EU Ambassador to The Gambia reaffirmed the EU-AU partnership in promoting peace and conflict resolution across Africa.
Mr. Marcel Akpovo, UN Human Rights Regional Representative for East Africa and the Aho emphasized repatriation as a crucial step toward transitional justice.
Mr. Sakom Mbodibo, Vice President of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rightho encouraged member states to submit annual human rights reports
