Lisa Sherman Nikolaus Amnesty International Researcher for West Africa base in Dakar Senegal was live on Gainako radio discussing Gambia’s decision to withdraw from the Commonwealth. The Amnesty representative said Gambia’s withdrawal from the Commonwealth does not excuse it from its’ obligations to upholding human rights and other treaties the nation is a signatory to. Lisa said Gambia will continue to be on the radar of Amnesty International on its human rights records particularly the freedom of the press and the rights of citizens to express themselves.
Asked on the possible reasons for Gambia’s withdrawal Mrs. Sherman- Nicolaus said the pressure on Gambia has been building over time and as a result it may have contributed to Gambia’s decision to pull out of the voluntary Commonwealth organization. She said it is unfortunate that Gambia has taken this decision and it only means there will be one less institution to exert pressure on Gambia to live up to its obligations.
Speaking on speculation of possible abduction of Gambia’s former Chief of Defense Staff (CDS) Ndure Cham and other Gambian dissidents in Senegal, Ms Sherman – Nicholaus said they are aware of the alleged reports but have not been able to confirm the validity of the story. Amnesty will continue to investigate the story and report it accordingly when more information is forthcoming. She urged Gambian citizens to provide information if they have any on this and other human rights issues.
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