Vol 1, Issue 2: Message from the Secretariat

posted by Anonymous on Sat, 10/01/2011 - 18:37

Since the last publication, a lot has happened in the human rights arena of Sierra Leone. The Commission operationalised it quasi-judicial function, which culminated into the holding of its maiden public hearing involving 311 Ex-Combatants who made a complaint of discrimination. 

     Underscoring the Commission’s  commitment to institutional strengthening is the  fact that the Commission operationalised its Research and Monitoring Directorate and has put in place modalities for the establishment of a Resource Mobilization Unit.
     A number of employees were sent for specialized international trainings both within and outside of the country of the country.
     The Commission is proud to highlight  the supportive role it played that led to the positive achievements of Sierra Leone during the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Process in Geneva in May.
     The Commission eagerly awaits the implementation of the adopted recommendations and continues to express its willingness to support the government in fulfilling its backlog reporting obligations, with particular reference to the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights (ACHPR).
     The Commission is concerned about the delay in enacting the Sexual Offences Bill and the Freedom of Information (FOI) Bill amongst other legislations. HRCSL is also becoming increasingly concerned at the snail pace in establishing the TRC follow-up Committee and  the implementation of the remaining imperative recommendations.
     The Commission commends Government for its commitment to improve the lives of Persons’ living With Disabilities (PWDs) in this country, with the passage of the PWD Act of 2010.
     Whilst HRCSL appreciates the support it continues to receive from the Government of Sierra Leone, it will also like to remind government of its obligation to fully support and adequately resource its National Human Rights Institution (NHRI).
     The Commission appreciates its relocation to the NEC building at OAU Drive in Freetown, but calls on government to consider providing it with its own permanent office structure  to match the increased demand for our services and status as a prestigious NHRI.
     The Commission values the collaboration of development partners and  the Civil Society as we strive to  fulfill our statutory  mandate.
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vol 1
issue 2