Why it matters:
The arrests have intensified public anger, prompting a growing number of young people to rally in the streets of Serekunda, just a few kilometers from Banjul. The demand for the swift and unconditional release of the detained protesters is rapidly gaining traction.
The big picture:
The activist group "Gambians Against Looted Assets" (GALA) protested after their permit for a peaceful demonstration was reportedly denied. They aimed to demand public disclosure of the buyers of the former president’s assets. Police intervened, arresting over 27 demonstrators. Protesters chanted slogans like "Free the Youths" and "Publish the List," calling for transparency.
What they're saying:
Bakary K. Badjie, the National Assembly Member for Foni Bintang, says that intimidation is not the solution—negotiation and unity are key; the public has the right to transparency, as the assets in question belong to the people, not the government; the demand is for financial accountability and welfare.
Babucarr Nani Cee, a vocal member of GALA: "Let Gambians know that we are not going to negotiate if our colleagues are still behind bars; if they are not released, the protest will continue."
Lamin Cee says that the National Youth Adviser approached them for mediation, but they declined, insisting that dialogue could not proceed without the unconditional release of their detained colleagues.
Alieu Ceesay, a young journalist briefly detained by the police while covering the unfolding events: "I was just filming with my phone, and a police officer grabbed my phone. Then I followed him to the police headquarters, and the police officer asked me to wait in the cell where I was detained for a while and eventually discharged."
Go deeper:
The government is yet to issue a comprehensive statement addressing the demands of the protesters and the arrests made. The coming hours and days will be crucial in determining the trajectory of the unfolding crisis in Gambia.
seyed mohammad kazemi
