By Sainabou Gassama
Amnesty International KMC Group has over the weekend joint the rest of the world to commemorate the world Human Rights Day.
The commemoration ceremony was held at the Law Faculty Auditorium at the University of The Gambia (UTG) under the theme: Equality – Reducing Inequalities and enhancing Human Rights”.
Muhammed Hydara, the KMC Amnesty International President said: “Human Rights is an issue that needs to be talked about because of its importance. Human quality should be respected, thus it is significant to commemorate the day as it shows the core value of human beings all around the world.”
He disclosed that they have sent their six-points policy to the government though they have all not sign it, and it needs to be endorsed as they want to enhance social right that needs to be enjoyed by everyone.
Among other things, he said the group is to make sure that peoples’ voices are heard make sure that they raise awareness concerning the human rights abuses that are happening in the country.
“Amnesty International has sent a very powerful message to all the politicians during the election period,” he added.
He therefore urged those that have not sign the six-point policy to do so, because the policy is to make sure that the fundamental rights of the people are guided, and equal rights be given to both men and women in the society.
According to him, one of the policies is to allow peaceful assembly of citizens to ensure that citizens show their concerns, and also hold government accountable.
“We thank God that we have freedom of speech, but having freedom of speech without giving people the privilege to demonstrate it in their own ways becomes meaningless because not everyone can speak up. Some needs to demonstrate in other ways, either through a banner or a very peaceful match for them to be heard.”
In his group expectation he said, “We are looking forward to have a very good Amnesty structure in The Gambia but we are unable to have it because of the previous regime. We are receiving all our funds from Amnesty International Senegal. Senegal has been the champion of the democracy we know,” he added.
Muatapha Manneh, a human rights advocate highlighted the importance of celebrating the day, saying the annual event reminded them of the people who have sacrificed for the country and the world at large.
“We are all paying the same taxes, therefore, when it comes to social amenities, we all deserve equal opportunities. Inequalities start from us in our homes. We cannot eradicate inequalities if we don’t stop activities that can bring about inequality in our homes,” he said.
