By: Haruna Kuyateh
ActionAid International The Gambia Juffureh Office Local Rights Programme LRP 9 has concluded a three-day training for 50 frontline security officers on human rights principles and the rule of law at Kunta Kinteh Lodge, Albreda.
The training brought together frontline security officers from theGambia Police Force, State Intelligence Service, Gambia Immigration Department, and Drug Law Enforcement Agency,and it covered topics such as first-hand information on legal rights instruments, understanding national and international laws, and gender-based violence.
It was geared towards enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of the participants in the discharge of their duty as part of interventions in strengthening national security and compliance with human rights.
The AAITG Programme Manager for the Juffureh Office, Mr. Saikou Darboe, said AAITG is committed to promoting and protecting fundamental human rights.
He pointed out that no meaningful development can take place if people are restricted from exercising their fundamental rights.
Darboe expressed the hope that the training would significantlycontribute to the protection and maintenance of the rule of law and order among citizens and non-citizens alike.
Ansumana Kinteh, Regional Police Commissioner for NBR said the Gambia Police Force “is fully committed to democratic policing and respect for the rule of law”. He tasked officers to comport themselves within the ambit of the constitution and security operational manuals and policies.
Commissioner Kinteh described ActionAid as a true partner to The Gambia.
The Prosecution and Legal Affairs Officer under the Human Rights Division of Gambia Police Force, ASP Alpha Badjie,underscored the significance of building the capacity of the security forces in NBR.
He commended Action Aid International The Gambia for organizing the training as, according to him, it would help officers better understand human rights issues with the view of protecting rights and respecting human dignity.
ASP Badjie tasked officers to support the efforts of the Police High Command and Action Aid International The Gambia to ensure human rights-based policing.
Jasong Sanyang from the National Human Rights Commission NHRC described the training as a step in the right direction.
He noted that sexual and gender-based violence remains a human rights concern and the protection of survivors should be a concern for security officers.