The Edward Francis Small Centre for Rights and Justice has welcomed the announcement on the commencement of the payment of reparations to victims.
“We recall with deep sadness that while some victims have endured suffering for over nine years, others have lived with pain, loss, and injustice for more than three decades. Although the wait has been far too long, the commencement of reparations brings a profound sense of relief, as reparations are not charity but a fundamental right of victims.
We commend the Reparations Commission for its decision to begin by considering victims from 1994, who constitute the longest-waiting category of victims. This approach is both just and humane. We also commend the Government for availing funds to enable the payment of reparations, which reflects an important step towards fulfilling its obligations to victims.” according to the release.
While welcoming this development, EFSCRJ urged the Government to ensure that adequate and sustained funding is made available to guarantee a smooth, uninterrupted, and comprehensive reparations process.
“It must be underscored that all victims were citizens who suffered harm at the hands of the State.
The State therefore bears a total, unconditional, moral and legal obligation to fully restore the rights and dignity of victims, including their social, physical, mental, and economic wellbeing. There can be no amount considered too much when it comes to addressing the harm suffered by victims.” the release stated.
The release added: “As reparations payments commence, we further urge the Reparations Commission to conduct the process with the utmost transparency, compassion, inclusivity, and accountability. The exercise must be guided by due diligence, professionalism, and respect, in strict compliance with the law. We stress the need for urgency and commitment, noting that victims have waited far too long in pain, uncertainty, and anxiety, often without adequate support.
The payment of reparations will provide long-awaited closure for many victims and empower them to address urgent personal and family needs, ease daily subsistence challenges, and promote both mental and physical healing and overall wellbeing.
EFSCRJ stands firmly in support of the Reparations Commission in this noble and historic endeavour and reaffirms its commitment to advocating for the rights, dignity, and full restoration of all victims.”.
