#Headlines

27 released on self-bail following mass protests

May 12, 2025, 12:07 PM | Article By: Jankey Touray

Twenty-seven activists from the advocacy group Gambians Against Looted Assets (GALA) were on Saturday10 May 2025released on self-bail following their arrest on Thursday.

Their arrest also followed a widespread youth protest demanding for their freedom on Thursday 8 May 2025, while attempting to deliver a petition to the Attorney General’s Office after police denied them permission to assemble.

The arrested youth were: Mamadi Kurang, Omar Camara, Kemeseng Sanneh, Hakeem Touray, Babucarr Keita, Alieu Bah, Ousainou Gambia, Fallou Gallas, Ebrima Kaira, Sheikh Faal, Lalo Gannes, Ousman Jammeh, Seedy Cham, Sonko Gambia, Salifu Darboe, Mam Jammeh, Abdoulie Jallow, Mafugi Fatty, Abubacarr Ceesay, Ebrima Jallow, Omar Sanyang, Salim Jabbi, Ebrima Keita, Sedat Terry Sarr, Sheriff Secka, Alieu Fadera, and Munain Ceesay.

Speaking after their release, Omar Camara stated that their freedom was not a favour but a right, noting that they had not violated any law.

“Gambia, thank you for your support and solidarity. Freedom comes with a price, and this is just the beginning of our struggle for freedom. We will continue to push forward and will no longer seek permits for our protests; we will take to the streets until our demands are met,” he expressed.

Camara further noted that they would verify the accuracy of their released members’ list and would call a press conference to communicate their next steps. He encouraged others to join their movement.

Alagie Mamadi Kurang emphasised their constitutional right to assemble and urged for a unified response among the youth.

“We are stronger together, and in every gathering, there is a leader whom we admire. We are not stopping here; there is much more to achieve. The looting and unacceptable activities must cease,” he said.

Abdoulie Bah also reiterated that their fight was far from over, mentioning their concerns regarding financial issues.

“We have over 60 children who have lost their lives, with no accountability. Our hospitals need medicine, and our mothers and children need to be saved,” he stated.

Similarly, Hakeem Touray expressed his determination after spending two nights in detention for speaking out against “injustice and corruption.”

“Bars and intimidation will not silence the truth. We protested against a government that protects those who loot state resources while ordinary Gambians struggle. We were not alone,” he remarked.

Touray thanked the youth who filled the streets of Westfield demanding their release and acknowledged that their courage and unity are the backbone of the nation.

He also expressed gratitude to everyone who provided food, water, and support, whether near or far.

“This is just the beginning. We remain committed to justice, transparency, and accountability.”