The Independent National Commission on Human Rights (INCHR), in collaboration with UNDP, has launched a Palava Hut public hearing on all human rights abuses that occurred during the country’s 14 years of civil unrest. The official launching ceremony of public hearing was held on August 28, 2023 in Henry Town, Gbarpolu County.
The ceremony, which brought together a cross-section of citizens from across the county was held under the theme, “Peace Building, Reconciliation and Social Cohesion Project 2020—2024”. Participants of Palava Hut hearing praised the INCHR and partner for organizing the forum, which afforded them the opportunity to express themselves freely on happenings during the civil crisis.
Recently, a group of dedicated individuals took the initiative to promote reconciliation and healing in communities across Gbarpolu County, ahead of the October 10, 2023 presidential and legislative elections.
This followed a seven-day capacity-building training, conducted by the Independent National Commission on Human Rights (INCHR), through the support of the United Nations Development Program (UNDP,) from June 26 to July 2, 2023, in Bopolu City.
While describing the palava hut mechanism of reconciliation as “traditional gathering”, INCHR Awareness Giver Supervisor, Casius Garpeh, said that the event will provide a safe space for community members to come together, share their stories, and find a common ground for reconciliation.
But before the palava hut dialogue takes place, the INCHR has decided to raise awareness and ensure the participation of as many community members as possible, stating that trained awareness givers are actively creating awareness in Bopolu District.
“INCHR believes that the success of the dialogue relies on the active involvement of those who experienced the consequences of the 14-year civil war firsthand in Liberia,” said Emery Ciapha.
He also said they have been trained to roll out awareness ahead of the palava hut dialogue.
Ciapha asserted that, with determination and passion, the INCHR and UNDP launched a major awareness campaign throughout in Bopolu District right after the training. “So, we are traveling to villages, towns, and remote areas, spreading the word about the up-coming palava hut dialogue,” said Ciapha.
