The 53rd ordinary session of African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, ACHPR, Tuesday wrapped up in Banjul with speakers calling for the protection of human rights on the continent.
The two-week convergence, which drew participants from across the length and breadth of Africa, was held at the Kairaba Beach Hotel.
In his closing remarks, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Lamin Jobarteh, commended the participants for their hardwork during their two-week deliberations.
“I hoped this session discussed all urgent concerns related to human rights issues, and I also hope issues raised will be duly put into consideration,” the Gambian justice minister said.
Minister Jobarteh added that the Gambia government was committed to the principles of the commission, and towards the promotion and the protection of human rights in Africa.
Also, in her closing remarks, the chairperson of the commission, Commissioner Catherine Dupe Atoki, said the only way for Africans to bring solutions to African problems was by building on democratic values, and putting in place an independent judicial system.
A peaceful election was witnessed in Ghana and Zimbabwe, and this was an indication that Africans are now determined to take their destiny into their own hands, said the African Commission chair.
She added that the commission would continue to work tirelessly for the advancement and promotion of human rights in Africa, while, urging state parties to provide a conducive environment to the stakeholders in the field of human rights promotion.
Ms Atoki said the African Union would pay attention to the protection of human rights in the countries that are rocked by war.
She urged the NGOs to continue strengthening their good cooperation with the African Commission in the protection and promotion of human rights in Africa.
Ms Atoki also urged African human rights institutions to work towards the implementation of the African Charter for Human and People Rights.
