By Buba Gagigo
Saihou Mballow, Special Adviser to President Adama Barrow, has publicly called on the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to investigate the alleged assault of Fatou Conta. Conta, a former United Democratic Party (UDP) supporter, recently defected to the National People’s Party (NPP), citing mistreatment from her former party.
Speaking at a welcoming ceremony held in her honour on Monday, Mballow urged the NHRC to take immediate action or risk being reported to international human rights bodies.
“I challenge Emmanuel Joof, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission, to investigate this case. I also call on Commissioner Jainaba Jobe, as a woman and a member of the Commission, to pursue the matter. Imam Baba Leigh, another commissioner, should also be involved. The NHRC should not only monitor the actions of the government—it is mandated to protect the rights of all Gambians, regardless of political affiliation,” Mballow said.
He further alleged that when Conta attempted to file a complaint with the police, her case was dismissed.
“She went to the police and was ignored. The commission has a duty under the National Human Rights Act 2017 to protect everyone, including opposition supporters and women. If they fail to act, I will report the NHRC to international human rights institutions,” he added.
Fatou Conta was allegedly assaulted by individuals believed to be UDP supporters during a political gathering in New Yundum. The UDP has since distanced itself from the incident, describing it as a personal matter unrelated to the party.
Conta’s defection to the NPP was formally announced during Monday’s ceremony.