By Alieu Ceesay
The National Assembly Standing Committee on Human Rights and Constitutional Matters, chaired by Honourable Madi Ceesay, met with the Gambia Centre for Victims of Human Rights Violations to provide updates on the transitional justice process, including the white paper on the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC) recommendations. This marks the third engagement between lawmakers and the Victim Centre to discuss critical issues, including reparations, prosecutions, and legislative progress.
Victim Centre National Coordinator Kebba Jome urged the committee to provide clarity on the status of key initiatives, including the Reparations Commission and other TRRC recommendations. “We need an update on where we are with the Reparations Commission, the Human Rights Committee, and other recommendations,” Jome stated, highlighting the centre’s ongoing challenges, particularly funding constraints.
Established in 2017, the Victim Centre has faced significant financial hurdles, relying heavily on proposal-based funding disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Jome revealed that a critical funding project is set to end this month, leaving core staff without salaries for the next three months. The centre plans to engage the government for logistical and financial support, seeking a subvention to sustain its operations. “We are still venturing for this,” Jome noted, emphasizing the urgency of government backing.
Honourable Madi Ceesay advised the centre to engage the Minister of Justice to include budgetary provisions in draft proposals. “If it’s in their draft proposals, it will be easy for us to push when they come to Parliament for bilaterals. If not, we will suggest it ourselves,” Ceesay assured, pledging the committee’s support. On reparations, he confirmed progress, stating, “Millions have been processed at the accounting general’s level, and I’m sure by now these funds are in their account.” He committed to following up with Dr. Loom, chair of the Reparations Commission, to ensure continued momentum.
Ceesay also addressed legislative advancements, noting that the Criminal Procedure and Offences Bill has become an act, a significant step in the transitional justice process. However, he expressed concern over the slow progress of the white paper, estimating its completion at less than 20%. “The last time we interacted with the National Human Rights Commission, it was at 15%. I’m sure it’s not yet at 20%,” he admitted.
Muhammed Kanteh, lawmaker for Busumbala, reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to justice. “We are very much concerned about the justice system and the implementation of the TRRC report. This implementation will set a new face for justice in this country, especially for families affected during that period,” he said.
The Victim Centre continues to advocate for stronger government support to ensure the transitional justice process delivers accountability and reparations for victims of human rights violations. As the committee and centre collaborate, the focus remains on accelerating the white paper’s progress and securing sustainable funding to uphold the centre’s vital work.
