The Edward Francis Small Centre for Rights and Justice (EFSCRJ) has raised concerns over disciplinary action taken against a senior police officer, ASP Binta Njie, following comments she made on social media.

The Gambia Police Force announced that ASP Njie is facing “administrative action” after she criticised remarks made by a 

pro-government supporter on Facebook.

The supporter, Baboucarr Bahoum, a known backer of President Adama Barrow, wrote on 22 February that “the most ungrateful people in this country are the people of Kiang”. 

ASP Njie, who hails from Kiang, responded on her personal Facebook page, saying that while political disagreements are natural in a democracy, insults targeting entire communities threaten national unity and security. She called for responsible speech and inclusive political engagement.

EFSCRJ has described her comments as “mature, apt, measured, and necessary,” arguing that such a statement should have come from the police leadership itself in response to Bahoum’s remarks.

In a statement issued on 25 February, the Office of the Inspector General of Police (IGP) clarified that ASP Njie had not been arrested or interrogated but that her case was being handled administratively under established disciplinary procedures.

At a government press conference the same day, IGP Seedy Muctarr Touray stated that police regulations prohibit officers from engaging in political discussions.

However, EFSCRJ has disputed the claim that Njie’s comments violated any laws or regulations.

“We have reviewed the instruments mentioned by the IGP and do not find any provision or code that Binta’s comments have breached,” the group said.

The rights organisation is urging the IGP to ensure the disciplinary process is fair and transparent.

“We remind the IGP that any action taken must be guided by the law and human rights standards, preventing victimisation or unfair treatment,” it added.

EFSCRJ has called on the police to update the public on the outcome of the proceedings.

By Adama Makasuba