SL Parliament Partner with Human Rights Commission On Law Enforcement On Hiv/Tb

By Abdul Rahman Bah

On Friday, June 28, 2024, a significant meeting took place at Companero Hotel, 3 Mile, bringing together key figures from the Sierra Leone Parliament, the Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL), law enforcement officers, and other stakeholders to address critical human rights issues, particularly focusing on HIV and TB. The event was spearheaded by the Parliamentary Chairperson on Human Rights, Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara, who also serves as the Opposition Whip in Parliament.

Opening Remarks and Commitment to Human Rights

Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara’s Address: Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara opened the meeting by reaffirming the Parliamentary Committee on Human Rights’ steadfast commitment to upholding and promoting human rights across Sierra Leone. He highlighted the dual challenges of HIV and TB, stressing that the committee is dedicated to defending individuals from violence and ensuring the protection and support of those affected by these diseases. Kamara called for robust legislative measures to further strengthen the protection of human rights, particularly for vulnerable populations, and reiterated the need for a collective approach in combating HIV and TB.

Insights from the Human Rights Commission

Commissioner Hassan Samba Yajah’s Emphasis: Commissioner Hassan Samba Yajah from the HRCSL delivered a powerful speech focusing on the ongoing struggle against HIV. He emphasized the critical need for continuous support for persons living with HIV, noting that human rights advocacy and awareness-raising are essential tools in the fight against the spread of the disease. Commissioner Yajah called for comprehensive efforts to prevent all forms of violence against individuals, particularly those living with HIV and TB, and urged Members of Parliament to enact supportive legislation that would enhance the well-being and protection of affected individuals.

Judicial Commitment to Human Rights

Mr. Samuel Koroma Esq.’s Assurance: Representing the judiciary, Mr. Samuel Koroma Esq. assured attendees that the courts are committed to safeguarding the rights of the people. He emphasized the role of the judiciary in protecting human rights through fair and just legal processes. Koroma highlighted that any cases involving human rights violations, particularly those related to HIV and TB, would be handled with utmost seriousness, ensuring that the rights of individuals are upheld and protected.

Highlighting Challenges and Advocacy for Vulnerable Groups

Joshua Kamara’s Insights: Joshua Kamara, the Western Regional Head for HIV/AIDS, provided a detailed account of the challenges faced by female sex workers, who are particularly vulnerable to HIV and TB. Kamara highlighted the high prevalence of these diseases among sex workers and the need for targeted interventions to support this group. He stressed the importance of regular testing for HIV and TB as a preventive measure and called for widespread public awareness campaigns to encourage individuals to know their status and take preventive actions.

Role and Functions of the Human Rights Commission

Joseph Kamara’s Overview: Joseph Kamara from the HRCSL provided an overview of the mandate and functions of the Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone, as outlined in the Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone Act 2004. He detailed the commission’s efforts in protecting and promoting human rights, with a specific focus on addressing issues related to HIV and TB. Kamara emphasized the importance of the commission’s work in advocating for the rights of vulnerable populations and ensuring that human rights are respected and upheld across the country.

Parliamentary Advocacy and Community Engagement

Throughout the engagement, Members of Parliament actively encouraged individuals to protect themselves from HIV and TB. They advised the use of condoms as a preventive measure and called for increased community engagement and sensitization efforts. The MPs emphasized that having HIV should not be stigmatized; rather, it should be treated as a normal illness, comparable to malaria. This approach aims to reduce stigma and discrimination, promoting a more supportive and inclusive environment for those affected by HIV and TB.

The event at Companero Hotel highlighted the collective commitment of Sierra Leone’s parliamentarians, human rights advocates, law enforcement officers, and other stakeholders to address the critical human rights issues related to HIV and TB. The discussions underscored the need for legislative support, enhanced public awareness, and judicial protection to effectively combat these diseases. The participants demonstrated a unified front in their efforts to promote human rights, protect vulnerable populations, and improve public health outcomes.

This initiative reflects Sierra Leone’s broader efforts to foster a society where human rights are respected, and individuals are supported and protected regardless of their health status. By advocating for comprehensive legal frameworks, increasing public awareness, and ensuring judicial protection, Sierra Leone is taking significant steps towards creating a more equitable and just society for all its citizens.