Press Release:
Sierra Leone records “unsatisfactory progress” in implementing key recommendations of Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC)
Slow progress likely to impact effective implementation of the Poverty Reduction Strategy
The Civil Coalition for Truth and Reconciliation (CCTR) announces the results of a “Score Card’ that records progress, to end of November 2005, on the implementation of the 47 imperative recommendations of the TRC.
These recommendations cover important issues that pertain to governance, corruption, human rights and the constitutional and legal protection of the rights of Women, Youth and Children. Many of these recommendations are critically relevant to the effective implementation of the country’s Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS).
This inaugural score card recorded a resounding “unsatisfactory progress” overall, with 31 out of 47 items registering the lowest score of “E”. Only 2 items registered a “B “, the highest grade achieved in the score card. Scores were particularly poor with respect to recommendations on the protection of women and those related to mineral resources. In matters pertaining to the establishment of the rule of law and the protection of human rights, some measured progress was realized but much more needs to be done.
Since the compilation of the score card on November 28th, there has been a significant item of progress relating to the recent release of the Editor of the “For Di People” news paper as a result of the appeals court hearing.
Given the relative lack of progress recorded, it is disappointing to note that at the recent Consultative Group conference, held in London from November 29-30 to fund the PRS, a negligible amount was committed toward publication (rather than implementation) of the TRC recommendations. This is most disturbing given the importance of “consolidation of peace” as a critical component of pillar one of the PRS, and as UNAMSIL finalizes it’s withdrawal to be replaced by the UN Integrated Office for Sierra Leone.
While the government of Sierra Leone has primary responsibility for implementing imperative recommendations other organs of state and civil society have an important role to play too.
The Civil Coalition for Truth and Reconciliation and it’s civic society partners, call for the immediate establishment of the TRC follow up committee and it’s provision with adequate resources to ensure the successful implementation of TRC recommendations.
Photo: Oluniyi Robbin-Coker of the CCTR(left) and Angelina Jolie (centre)during a visit to Sierra Leone.
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