It is with great sadness that the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (the African Commission) learnt about the passing of Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara, the first President of the Republic of The Gambia, which happened on Tuesday 27 August 2019.
Throughout his lifetime, Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara was committed to the promotion and protection of Human and Peoples’ Rights on the continent and played a very instrumental role in the development and adoption of the African Charter commonly called “the Banjul Charter”, as well as the hosting of the African Commission in Banjul, The Gambia.
In recognition of his immense contribution to the African Human Rights System, the African Commission presented an award to Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara at its 30th anniversary commemoration during its 61st Ordinary Session held in November 2017 in Banjul.
The African Commission deeply expresses its profound condolences to the bereaved family, the Government and the People of The Gambia.
May his soul rest in peace
