The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a strong statement condemning the arrest and detention of peaceful protesters affiliated with the youth-led movement Gambians Against Looted Assets (GALA), who were forcefully dispersed by police during a demonstration in Banjul.
In a press statement released on Sunday, the NHRC expressed grave concern over the conduct of security officers, particularly the Police Intervention Unit, in disrupting what it described as a peaceful protest organized in response to an investigative publication by The Republic on the controversial sale and distribution of former President Yahya Jammeh’s assets.
According to the Commission, it has received credible information confirming that those arrested — including students and journalists in violation of both domestic and international human rights standards.
“The right to peaceful assembly is guaranteed under the 1997 Constitution of The Gambia and under international human rights instruments to which The Gambia is a party,” the statement reads.
The NHRC reminded the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and all relevant authorities that their role is to facilitate the enjoyment of rights such as freedom of assembly — not to obstruct them. It further warned that continued suppression of civic space would erode public confidence in The Gambia’s democratic transition.
As part of its recommendations, the NHRC called for:
- Immediate access to family members and legal representatives for all detained individuals;
- The immediate and unconditional release of all those arrested in connection with the peaceful protest; and
- A swift, independent, and thorough investigation into the actions of the police officers involved in the arrests.
The Commission assured the public that it is actively monitoring the situation and remains committed to the promotion and protection of fundamental rights and freedoms in The Gambia.
 | ReplyReply allForwardAdd reaction |
