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Today: October 22, 2025
October 17, 2025
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NHRC Highlights Human Rights Situation in The Gambia

 

By Binta Jaiteh

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has presented an overview of the current human rights situation in The Gambia, including updates on monitoring the Government’s White Paper on the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC) recommendations.

Presenting the report, Basiru Bah, Senior Legal Officer at the Commission, disclosed that the NHRC received five complaints of alleged torture, inhuman and degrading treatment, or punishment within the reporting period.

“Two of the complaints were lodged against officers of the Gambia Police Force, one involving an alleged forceful arrest and assault by two police officers on 25th July 2024, and another relating to an alleged assault and battery by a PIU officer during a clash between the PIU and youths of Wellingara over a disputed land on 16th August 2024,” Mr. Bah said.

He also raised concerns over the treatment of persons living with mental health conditions, noting that they often face stigma, discrimination, and social exclusion.

“People dealing with mental health challenges in The Gambia are stigmatized, judged, and isolated, making them reluctant to seek the necessary care and support,” he explained. “The mental health system is also constrained by a lack of trained professionals, psychiatrists, psychologists, and counsellors, as well as inadequate facilities for care and rehabilitation.

Currently, there is no rehabilitation facility or programme to support recovery and reintegration.”

On human trafficking, Mr. Bah noted that The Gambia remains on the Tier 2 Watch List for not fully meeting the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking in persons. He reported that six alleged traffickers were prosecuted during the year, leading to the conviction of two sex traffickers, each sentenced to 15 years’ imprisonment and a fine.

Meanwhile, Emmanuel Joof, Chairman of the NHRC, reaffirmed that the Commission is mandated to submit an annual report to the National Assembly within three months after the end of each financial year.

He emphasized that under the Government’s White Paper on the TRRC, the NHRC has been entrusted with monitoring and reporting on the implementation of the Government’s commitments emanating from the TRRC recommendations.

“This role is not only central to transitional justice but also essential for ensuring accountability and the non-repetition of past human rights violations,” Chairman Joof stated.

He reiterated the NHRC’s independence in promoting and protecting human rights across the country, noting that the Commission is empowered to investigate alleged violations, advise the government on rights-related laws and policies, and educate the public on human rights principles.

“We also monitor compliance with international human rights obligations and make recommendations to improve respect for human rights and good governance,” he said.

Despite progress in handling complaints, Chairman Joof lamented persistent challenges, particularly low cooperation from some duty bearers, notably the Gambia Police Force.

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 By Binta Jaiteh The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has presented an overview of the current human rights situation in…
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