During his address at the official opening of the 2019/2020 legal year, President Barrow reiterates his government’s commitment to strengthening a credible justice system in The Gambia.
Highlighting the significance of the event, the President said a sound national justice system administration is vital for the stability and development of any nation, citing the government’s efforts in retaining the finest indigenous legal minds for both the judiciary and State Law Office.
”When Gambians voted for change in 2016, they chose democratic rule over dictatorship, the rule of law over misuse of power, and respect for human rights over the disregard of freedoms and civil liberties”. he observed
He continued – ”We know that Government commitment to good governance and the protection of human rights goes a long way in supporting the Judiciary and the legal profession”.
While outlining major legislative and institutional reforms embarked upon by his government, President Barrow said there has been substantial progress with the various commissions, pointing out the recommendations of the Janneh Commission report were accepted by the government and recovery efforts are being executed in the interest of the nation.
Acknowledging that more work needs to be done to address various challenges in the legal sector, the President said his government will continue in its efforts to maintain public confidence in the judiciary, through the appointment of the required number of judges at the High Court of the Gambia.
”I pay tribute to all those in the criminal justice chain who have contributed in one way or another to the justice delivery system in the country. Keep up the good work.
In conclusion, I must reiterate, once again, my Government’s commitment to providing a sustained conducive environment for an efficient, transparent and fair legal system in The Gambia.
Confident that you will play your part very well”.
