Gambians Against Looted Assets (GALA), has called on Agriculture Minister Dr Demba Sabally to apologise for comments he allegedly made threatening citizens who participate in public protests.

The group issued the statement following remarks attributed to Dr Sabally in which he reportedly said he would have Lawyer Essa Faal and Mayor Rohey Lowe handcuffed if they joined any future protests.

His comments have drawn sharp criticism from civil society groups and members of the public, who view them as an attempt to intimidate citizens exercising their constitutional right to peaceful assembly.

In a press conference, GALA spokesperson Omar Saibo Camara condemned the minister’s remarks and warned against what he described as a “growing trend of threats” against civic activists and political figures.

“We have learned about the state minister issuing threats to citizens for participating in a peaceful and lawful protest,” he said. “We call on the minister to withdraw the statement and issue an apology. We will not be intimidated by anyone.”

The group also reiterated its commitment to holding public officials accountable and said it would continue to advocate against corruption in government.

There has been no public response from Dr Sabally at the time of reporting.

By Adama Makasuba