By Amin Kef Sesay
The Human Rights Commission- Sierra Leone HRCSL has paid a courtesy call on the Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Dr. Francis Kai-Kai, at his office on 30 January 2020.
The purpose of the meeting was to introduce themselves to the Minister of Planning and to share information on the Commission’s activities and also discuss possible opportunities for future collaboration with the Ministry.
The delegation, included, Commissioner Dr. Gassan Abbess, with oversight of the Directorate of Monitoring and Research, Commissioner Hassan Samba Yarjah in charge of Regional Affairs, Commissioner Simite Lavaly with Oversight for Complaint, Investigations and Legal Services, Executive Secretary, Joseph Kamara, Zenia Thompson and Moses Massaquoi
Commissioner Lavaly, who stated the purpose of meeting; noted the importance of the Ministry in the development process of the country. She said since development was synonymous to human rights and the respect for the rule of law, it will be necessary for both institutions to focus on building strong partnership to ensuring that service delivery to the people remains an effective component of the Government’s agenda.
In welcoming the delegation, the Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Dr. Francis Kai-Kai stated that it was always a pleasure to receive and interact with officials, such as, the HRCSL. He said such engagements provided the platform for exchange of information and best practices.
Dr. Kai-Kai said there had always been a strong nexus among human rights, development, the rule of law and peace. He said that the Medium Term National Development Plan (2019-2023) clearly outlines a very strong desire for a human rights and basic needs approach to development.
“Largely, we are singing from the same hymn sheet, I hope that our collaboration will be underpinned by the common value that we share ‘people’ and that we will strongly work together to give Development a human face, which is a key component of President Bio’s New Direction Agenda,”Minister Kai-Kai said.
He urged the Commission to work with dedication and commitment as they join the Ministry in ensuring that the year 2020, becomes the year of delivery, delivery and delivery.
Delivery the vote of thanks, the Deputy Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Dr. Robert Chakanda stated that the initiative was the right thing to do in furthering President Bio’s agenda. He said the Ministry will be ready to strongly collaborate with HRCSL in ensuring delivery.
