NHRC Chair Urges Security Officers to Uphold Rule of Law as ‘Frontline Defenders’
NHRC Chair Mr Emmanuel Daniel Joof © Askanwi
By Edward Francis Dalliah
The Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Mr Emmanuel Daniel Joof, urged security officers to embrace their role as "frontline defenders" of the rule of law, emphasizing the critical responsibility they hold in maintaining justice, human rights, and public order.
He made these remarks during his welcoming speech at the launch of the Training Modules on International Human Rights Law, International Humanitarian Law, and Sexual and Gender-Based Violence for the Gambia Security Forces on Monday, 9th December 2024.
Chairperson Joof emphasized that upholding human rights is not optional but a fundamental duty enshrined in both national laws and international conventions and treaties to which the Gambia is a signatory. He further reminded security officers that their role is vital in shaping the public’s perception of justice and governance.
Security Officers at Training © Askanwi
The now defunct Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparation Commission (TRRC), uncovered numerous human rights violations committed mainly by security officers during the 22-year rule of former President Yahya Jammeh. Its findings, documented a pattern of abuse, particularly by the military, including widespread sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV). Volume 10 of the report includes harrowing testimonies from victims of rape, sexual harassment, and exploitation.
The NHRC Chair pointed out that during this period, the security forces were often used as tools to oppress citizens. He underscored the importance of security officers in ensuring human rights protection and positioning themselves as "guardians of the rule of law."
In response to these violations, the government initiated a transitional justice process after President Adama Barrow assumed office in 2017. This process led to the establishment of several institutions like the NHRC, aimed at addressing issues such as security sector reform, financial oversight, constitutional review, and national reconciliation.
Security Officers at the Engagement © Askanwi
Following the submission of the TRRC’s final report to President Barrow in 2021, a white paper was issued by the government outlining how they will be implementing the recommendations they accepted. One key area of focus is the development of training modules for law enforcement officers on handling SGBV cases.
Chairperson Emmanuel Joof explained that the NHRC is tasked with some of these implementation roles which include reviewing the training manuals of the security force and coordinating with relevant stakeholders to develop modules on international human rights law, international humanitarian law, and SGBV.
Speaking on behalf of the National Security Advisor, Deputy National Security Advisor Colonel Omar Bojang described the training modules as an “important milestone” in the ongoing security sector reform. He encouraged security officers to fully engage in the training to enhance their knowledge and skills.
EU Representative Ms Enya Braun and the government’s Special Adviser on Transitional Justice, Ms Ida Persson, also acknowledged some progress made by both the government and the NHRC in advancing security sector reform and addressing past human rights violations.
Gov Special Adviser on Transitional Justice © Askanwi
