NHRC Pays Courtesy Call on President Barrow, Reaffirms Commitment to Human Rights and Democratic Governance

The Commissioners and Management of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) today paid an annual courtesy call on His Excellency President Adama Barrow at the State House in Banjul.

The meeting provided an opportunity for the NHRC to brief the President on its mandate, ongoing activities, and reflections on the state of human rights in The Gambia. The Commission highlighted progress made in complaint handling, detention monitoring, engagement with security services, human rights education, and advisory support to Government, including contributions to national reform processes such as the implementation of the TRRC recommendations.

Speaking during the meeting, the Chairperson of the NHRC, Commissioner Emmanuel Daniel Joof emphasised that the Commission should not be perceived as an adversary to the Government, but rather as a key instrumental partner in strengthening democracy and accountability. He noted that the existence of an independent and effective National Human Rights Commission, serves as a critical benchmark of a nation’s human rights record.

“The NHRC should not be seen as an adversary to the Government but as a constructive partner in the advancement of rule of law and democratic governance and that an independent and effective NHRC is largely the score card of the nations human rights record”, stated Commissioner Emmanuel Daniel Joof, NHRC Chairperson.


The NHRC commended the President’s leadership in maintaining an open civic space and constructive engagement with human rights mechanisms, while also drawing attention to persisting challenges, including detention conditions, socio-economic rights, land-related issues, accountability expectations, and the protection of vulnerable groups.

The Commission also emphasized the need for strengthened collaboration and sustained financial and logistical support and reaffirmed its commitment to working as a constructive partner in building a democratic, peaceful, and rights-respecting society.

In response, President Adama Barrow reiterated his government’s support for the NHRC and its independence. He recalled that the Commission was established under his administration and reaffirmed his political will to continue advancing human rights, democracy, and good governance in The Gambia.

“It is under my government that the NHRC was established, and I want to assure you that my government has the political will and reiterated his political will to continue advancing human rights, democracy, and good governance in the country”, stated President Barrow.

President Barrow further advised that in exercising its mandate, the NHRC should be patient, tolerant but also firm in its actions despite criticism and challenges it may face.