I commend the Gambia Police Force (GPF) for granting a permit to the Gambians Against Looted Assets (GALA) to exercise their constitutional right to assemble peacefully. It is equally important to recognize the professionalism demonstrated by the General Duty Unit of the GPF in managing public order during the event.
What transpired yesterday offers an important insight: the event proceeded as planned, without any major incidents or disruptions. This smooth execution underscores a key point many of the public concerns surrounding unprofessional police conduct, especially in police-public interactions, tend to arise from the actions of the Police Intervention Unit (PIU).
In their absence, the atmosphere was notably calm and orderly, which suggests that a different approach is not only possible but necessary and effective.
It is therefore worth encouraging the PIU to reflect critically on their approaches and consider revisiting their strategies and training. Professionalism, restraint, and respect for civil liberties must be central to their operations moving forward.
As we strive to build stronger trust between law enforcement and the public, moments like this offer valuable lessons and opportunities for institutional growth.
