Lawyer Ousainou Darboe, the leader of United Democratic Party, has asked the Gambia’s Inspector General of Police to arrest Baboucarr Bahoum, who insulted the people of Kiang calling them “ungrateful” for voting for a UDP candidate last month.

Mr Bahoum was reportedly called for questioning by the police after public condemnation. He later apologised for his comments. 

However, Mr Darboe rejected Mr Bahoum’s apology, insisting that his comments are “seditious”, “outrageous” and “unacceptable”.

He said Bahoum should be held accountable for his remarks against the people of Kiang.

“I ask the Inspector General of Police to arrest Mr (Baboucarr)Bahoum; subject him to interrogation with the whole article and see whether that statement is not likely to cause disaffection or discontent among the people of Kiang,” Darboe said during a press conference on Tuesday.

He said Mr Bahoum cannot hide behind an apology and go scot-free after committing a crime.

He urged the Inspector General of Police to be careful of decisions he takes in his official capacity.

He added: “this is why at one time I caution the Inspector General of Police that he should be very careful with decisions he makes, especially decisions that appear to be political in nature.”

By Adama Makasuba