The National Human Rights Commission of The Gambia has opened an internal investigation into statements attributed to Commissioner Imam Baba Leigh after public criticism and formal complaints, Chairperson Emmanuel Daniel Joof said in a public statement.
Joof said the Commission had taken note of widespread concern, including calls for Leigh’s removal, and treated allegations involving tribalism, hate speech, discrimination and intolerance as serious matters that can undermine peaceful coexistence.
He confirmed that the Commission had received and acknowledged individual complaints. The Directorate of Legal and Investigation is examining the remarks, the context in which they were made and other relevant issues. Investigators will engage Leigh and others as needed before submitting findings, a legal opinion, and recommendations to the Commission.
Joof said the NHRC had not issued a judgment on the merits of the controversy because the inquiry is still underway and it would be inappropriate to prejudge complaints already formally lodged.
According to the statement, Leigh was on annual leave when the comments were made and was not speaking for the Commission. After public reaction, he issued an explanation that he had spoken in a personal capacity, followed by an apology in a local language to the Mandinka community and others who felt offended.
Whether that explanation or apology is adequate, and whether further action is warranted, will be assessed in light of the investigation’s findings, Joof said.
He also stressed that a commissioner cannot be removed by the chairperson alone. The NHRC Act governs appointment, tenure, and removal, which must follow the prescribed legal process rather than public pressure.
That stance, he said, is not an attempt to shield anyone from accountability. “The best protection against impunity is a fair, independent and lawful process that establishes the facts.”
The Commission reiterated a policy of zero tolerance for hate speech, tribalism, religious intolerance and discrimination, whoever makes the remarks and whichever community is affected. Joof noted that the NHRC has published research on hate speech, engaged political parties and conducted national advocacy for tolerance and social cohesion. Those principles, he said, must be applied consistently.
He asked the public to allow due process, saying silence on the substance of the case should not be read as inaction. Investigating complaints and applying the law fairly, he argued, are themselves part of accountability.
The NHRC remains committed, Joof said, to protecting the rights and dignity of all people in The Gambia and to promoting equality, non-discrimination and peaceful coexistence.
