By Hassan Gbassay Koroma
The Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL) recently recognized Concord Times Newspaper for its significant role in raising public awareness about human rights issues across the country.
The recognition, awarded at the Bintumani International Conference Hall during a special dinner and awards night, was part of the Commission’s 20th anniversary celebrations, coinciding with the 76th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).
Concord Times has been a prominent media outlet, consistently focusing on human rights abuses and human interest stories throughout Sierra Leone. Its continued efforts to highlight human rights challenges have earned it this prestigious acknowledgment.
The awards ceremony honored both past and present individuals who have contributed to the promotion and protection of human rights in Sierra Leone.
Notable awardees included the late President Ahmad Tejan Kabbah, the late Justice Edmond K. Cowan, President Julius Maada Bio, Former Attorney General and Minister of Justice Joseph F. Kamara, and First Lady Fatima Bio, among others.
Patricia Narsu Ndanema, Chairperson of the HRCSL, highlighted that the Commission was established two decades ago through an Act of Parliament with the mission to safeguard the rights of Sierra Leoneans. She expressed pride in the Commission’s progress, noting its current standing as a respected hub for study visits from other African countries due to its professional conduct and achievements.
Justice Jamestina King also paid tribute to the pioneers of the Commission, acknowledging that although some are no longer with us, their legacy lives on through the Commission’s unwavering commitment to upholding the rights of all Sierra Leoneans.
