Over 16 Activists Detained in Gambia for Demanding Transparency on Jammeh’s Seized Assets
Youth Protesters Arrested After Defying Police Ban
By Nelson Manneh
More than 16 youth activists were arrested by Gambian police on Sunday after attempting to protest against the opaque disposal of assets seized from former President Yahya Jammeh. The demonstration, organized by Gambians Against Looted Assets (GALA), took place at Arch 22 in Banjul despite authorities denying a protest permit.
Demands for Full Disclosure
The activists demanded the government publicly disclose:
- A complete inventory of Jammeh’s forfeited properties
- Detailed sale terms and conditions
- Identities of all buyers
“If the Government cannot disclose this information, it suggests their involvement in unlawful sales,” one protester told Foroyaa newspaper.
Investigation Sparks Public Outcry
The protest followed an explosive report by The Republic titled “The Assets of Gambia’s Former Dictator Go for a Song,” which alleged:
- Assets sold far below market value
- Government officials facilitating sales to associates
- Lack of transparency in the disposal process
Police Response and Detentions
Gambia Police Force confirmed arresting “more than 16 individuals” linked to the unauthorized protest. Authorities stated protesters refused to identify themselves during questioning. Journalists reported detainees faced at least two criminal charges, though specifics remain undisclosed.
Key Demands in GALA’s Petition
The activists planned to deliver a formal petition titled “Urgent Call for Transparency and Accountability in the Sale of Former President Yahya Jammeh’s Assets,” demanding:
- Full publication of all forfeited assets with sale details
- Disclosure of proceeds allocation
- Creation of independent oversight body
- Withdrawal of former Justice Minister’s ICC nomination
- Public address by President Barrow
National Implications
The controversy has sparked nationwide debate about transitional justice and government accountability. GALA’s petition warns the opaque process “threatens to undermine public trust” in Gambia’s democratic reforms.
As of Thursday, reports indicated detained protesters remained in custody. The Ministry of Justice has yet to respond publicly to the demands.
Source: Foroyaa