The Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission has suspended its public hearings after the sharp rise in coronavirus cases in the country.

The Commission’s suspension is part of efforts to help curb spread of the virus.

“In the light of the growing seriousness of the Covid-19 situation in The Gambia, the Commission has decided to suspend its public hearings till further notice. The suspension will take effect immediately,” the Commission said in a statement.

“The decision to suspend hearings was reached after careful consideration and consultations at the level of the Commission and between the Commission and the Ministry of Justice.”

But the commission said its various committees will continue working on their various agendas, and the commission will also continue working on putting together some aspects of the final report, adding “it’s very keen on completing its work and submitting its final report and recommendations in good time.”

Its Secretariat will also remain partially open as well as its other units, but staff will be coming to work on a roster system.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba