By Kemo Kanyi
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has launched an investigation into remarks attributed to Commissioner Imam Baba Leigh concerning the Mandinka ethnic group.
In a statement issued Monday, the NHRC said it fully appreciated the seriousness of concerns raised over the remarks and understood why they had generated considerable public discussion and concern.
The commission says it takes matters relating to tribalism, hate speech, discrimination, intolerance and statements capable of undermining peaceful coexistence seriously.
“A number of individual complaints have been formally submitted to the commission. These complaints have been duly received and acknowledged, and the commission has commenced its own investigation into the matter through its Directorate of Legal and Investigation (DLI),” the statement, signed by NHRC Chairperson Emmanuel Joof, said.
According to the commission, the DLI is examining the statements, the circumstances and context in which they were made, as well as other relevant issues.
As part of the investigation, the Directorate will engage Commissioner Leigh and other relevant persons as necessary, the NHRC said.
At the conclusion of the investigation, the DLI will submit its findings, legal opinion and recommendations to the commission for consideration.
The NHRC explained that its decision not to make a substantive public pronouncement on the merits of the matter was because the investigation was still ongoing.
It said it would be inappropriate to prejudge the matter, particularly as formal complaints had been lodged and the commission’s investigative process was underway.
The commission also clarified that Imam Leigh was on annual leave when he made the remarks and was not speaking on behalf of the NHRC.
Following the public reaction to his comments, Imam Leigh issued a public statement providing an explanation and context for his remarks. He subsequently apologised in a local language to the Mandinka community and others who felt offended by his comments.
The NHRC said it had taken note of these developments but stressed that the adequacy of the explanation or apology, as well as whether further action was warranted, would be considered based on the facts and findings of the investigation.
The commission further clarified that the removal of an NHRC Commissioner could not be decided solely by the Chairperson.
It said the appointment, tenure and removal of commissioners were governed by the NHRC Act and other applicable legal provisions.
Any removal, the commission added, must therefore follow the process prescribed by law and could not be determined solely on the basis of public sentiment, pressure or demands.