By: Sandally Sawo
The Gambia Bar Association (GBA) said the safety and security of magistrates as judicial officers is non-negotiable.
The Bar association stated that it received with great concern the letter from the Magistrates Association dated 20th January 2025 headed “Critical and Urgent Security Concerns Due to Withdrawal of Police Orderlies from Magistrates”, regarding the decision of the Inspector General of Police to suddenly withdraw the security personnel assigned to Magistrates.
“The GBA wishes to state that the safety and security of Magistrates as judicial officers, is non-negotiableand should remain a priority,” the association said in a statement. “Chapter 8 Section 120 (4) of the Constitution of the Republic of the Gambia 1997 provides thus: “The Government and all departments and agencies of the Government shall accord such assistance to the Courts as the courts may reasonably require to protect their independence,dignity and effectiveness”.
“The police orderlies have long provided personal security to Magistrates and their presence in court ensures a secure environment conducive for the Magistrates to preside over cases and make impartial decisions. The lack of security therefore leaves Magistrates vulnerable to potential threats of attack and intimidation, making it impossible for them to perform their judicial functions safely and effectively.”
The Bar association expressed its full “support forthe decision of the Magistrates not to sit in court until such time as their security is guaranteed”. “The GBA, therefore, calls on the Inspector General of Police to immediately reinstate the police orderliesassigned to the Magistrates or provide alternative arrangement to afford them the needed security, and to ensure that the integrity of the judicial process is not compromised. We remain committed to promoting the independence of the judiciary and upholding the rule of law,” read the statement, which was dated 21st January 2025 and signed by the President of the Gambia Bar Association Neneh M.C Cham.
