By: Abubacarr Saidykhan
African Union Security Council currently on a Field Mission in The Gambia discussed with Truth Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC) on Tuesday on the state of affairs of the proceedings of the TRRC.
The 26-members AU Security Council on Field Mission in The Gambia to sound the opinions of various stakeholders about the security situation of the country. The Peace and Security Council of the United Nations were also part the meeting held at the premises of the TRRC in Kotu.
The Peace and Security Council on field mission in the Gambia is currently following the proceeding of the TRRC.
In her statement, the Vice Chairperson of the TRRC, Adelaide Sosseh, said the TRRC Act that came into being in 2017, contemplates the payment of reparations to victims.
“The right to reparations to victims of gross violations of human rights is well grounded in the TRRC Act and as well as the International Law,” she said.
She said for those who have suffered human rights violations, deserved acknowledgement of those violations and appropriate action to be taken to provide redress.
She explained that under Article 20 of the TRRC Act, the commission is required to grant reparations to victims and it may issue regulations in furtherance of those objectives.
“Reparations will include compensation. There will be restitution, rehabilitation, including medical and Psychological Reparations,”
She said the number of people who needs psycho social support in the Gambia are many, adding that there are urgent interim measures which has to be taking especially in the area of health and education.
She revealed that the Turkish government will be supporting the funding of the overseas treatment of victims.