The Gambia Police Force has officially approved a planned anti-corruption protest organised by the civil society group Gambians Against Looted Assets (GALA), set to take place on Tuesday, July 23, 2025, in the Kanifing Municipality.
The protest is expected to spotlight public frustrations over alleged corruption and financial mismanagement in state institutions.
The peaceful march is scheduled to run from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM, beginning at Iceman Junction and ending at the Youth Monument in Westfield. The permit was issued by the Office of the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and outlines a number of strict conditions organisers must follow.
Police Conditions for the Protest
According to the letter signed by Assistant Inspector General of Police Pateh Jallow on behalf of the IGP and dated July 14, the following conditions will apply:
1. Route and Timing: The protest must follow the approved path from Iceman Junction to the Youth Monument and must stay within the two-and-a-half-hour window.
2. Delegation Limit: Only five members of GALA will be allowed to deliver petitions to relevant institutions.
3. Pre-Protest Briefing: Organisers are required to hold a mandatory pre-protest briefing at the front gate of the Youth Monument, opposite St. Theresa’s Church, before the procession begins.
4. Legal Compliance: All participants must abide by the law throughout the demonstration.
5. Peaceful Conduct: The use of insulting or derogatory language is strictly prohibited. Protesters are expected to maintain order and civility at all times.
The police have warned that failure to comply with these terms could lead to the revocation of the permit and potential legal action.
To manage the protest and ensure safety, the Commissioner of Police for the Kanifing Region has been instructed to coordinate security for the duration of the event.
Public Anticipation Builds
GALA’s protest is likely to draw significant attention as frustration mounts over government accountability and corruption-related issues. The group has positioned the demonstration as a call for greater transparency in public finance management and institutional integrity.
While the permit represents a nod to democratic expression, the level of police oversight underscores the government’s cautious approach to public demonstrations. The success and conduct of the protest will be closely watched by the media, civil society, and political observers alike.
