The event, as part of the 2024 legal year celebrations, was held yesterday 25 January 2024 at the law courts building in Banjul and graced by judges, senior legal officers and other members of the judiciary.
Hon. Justice Hassan B. Jallow, Chief Justice of The Gambia, said the appointment of the new notaries public was part of the process of implementing a particular objective of the judiciary’s strategic plan which was to improve access to justice by the community.
Chief Justice Jallow added that as the new appointees were now part of the officers of the courts, they are to deliver their services in a high standard of honesty, integrity and respect for the law, saying: “You should bear in mind that you are there essentially to serve the community.”
He advised members of the association, saying: “It is important to note that there is strength in numbers but there is greater strength in unity when you come together.”
Through the association, he said, members would be able to coordinate their activities, as well as monitor performance in the service of the judiciary.
Amadou Touray, chairperson of the Association of Commissioners for Oaths, Justices of Peace and Notaries Public, thanked the chief justice and other judicial staff for their support in bringing the association to light again and for providing an office space for it.
Mr Touray further mentioned a few challenges they are encountering at the new office located in Bundung Court complex. He said the office needs some furniture, computers, equipment like printers and photocopiers.
Representing the Attorney General and Minister for Justice, the Solicitor General, Hussein Thomasi, congratulated the newly sworn-in notaries public and the commissioners, adding that they are now important players in the administration of justice.
As prominent citizens, SG Thomasi said the new appointees should recognise their roles in the administration of justice and to ensure that they familiarise themselves with the law and particularly know their limitations.
“It is very important to know your limitations and what is permitted under the law and what is not permitted to do under the law,” he pointed out.
The event was followed with a presentation by counsel Ida Drammeh on the overview of the roles, responsibilities of notaries public, commissioners for oaths and justices of peace.
