President Adama Barrow has called for calm and unity following disturbances that left one person dead and several others injured, including security officers.
In a national address on Monday Barrow expressed condolences to the family of Omar Badjie, who died during the clashes, and pledged government support to all affected families. He also wished a swift recovery to the injured.
“The right to protest peacefully is a cornerstone of our democracy protected by our Constitution and respected by this government,” Barrow said. “But violence, destruction of property, and threats to public safety will be addressed firmly by law.”
The president appealed to young Gambians to channel their grievances through lawful and constructive means, stressing that his administration is listening to their concerns.
He also warned against individuals he said were seeking to exploit the situation for political or personal gain.
Addressing the security forces, Barrow urged professionalism, restraint, and respect for citizens’ rights while maintaining public order.
The president ended his speech by calling on Gambians to use democratic institutions to resolve disputes and to reject violence. “Only together, through peaceful engagement and shared responsibility, will we build the Gambia of our dreams,” he said.
