Closing Speech of the Attorney General and Secretary of
State for Justice at the 5th Extraordinary Session of the
African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights.
Held in Banjul, The Gambia
From 21-29th July 2008
Hon. Chairperson of the African Commission on Human and Peoples Rights- Honorable Justice Sanji Mmasenono Monageng,
Hon. Commissioners of the African Commission on Human and Peoples Rights,
Executive Secretary of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights,
Members of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps,
Distinguished delegates,
Members of the Press here present,
Ladies and gentlemen,
All other protocols respectfully observed:
It is my honour and privilege to deliver the closing statement at the 5th Extra- Ordinary Session of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights. Let me begin by apologizing for not being able to attend the Opening Ceremony in person due to some prior State commitments.
On behalf of the Government of the Republic of The Gambia, we are deeply honoured to once again host the Extra-Ordinary Session here in the Gambia, the host country of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
It will be recalled that the purpose of this 5th Extra-ordinary Session was to finalize the Rules of Procedure of the African Commission, prior to harmonizing them with those of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights. The session was also to consider the backlog of Communications before the Commission, as well as other urgent issues that are of paramount importance to the work of the Commission.
I am happy to hear that the Commission has finalized consideration of its Rules of Procedure, as this represents a tremendous step forward in putting in place the legal infrastructure required for effective working relations between the Commission and the African Court.
Furthermore, the fact that the Commission has managed to consider some of the Communications before it will help, hopefully, to enhance justice delivery in the area of human rights.
Chairperson,
Honorable Commissioners:
The promotion and protection of human rights in Africa is the responsibility of all. This is because it is only when human rights are guaranteed, promoted, protected and fulfilled that peace and development will be realized in the continent. I, therefore, commend your efforts and commitment to fulfilling your mandate as members of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights. Once again, on behalf of the Government of the Republic of The Gambia, I hope that you enjoyed your stay in The Gambia.
Finally, let me end by reiterating the continuing commitment of the Republic of The Gambia to support the African Commission and its work. I wish you all a safe journey back home.
I thank you all, bon Voyage.
