The country’s bar association has called on the Gambia government to protect the right of citizens to peaceful assembly.

“We reiterate and uphold the constitutional right of citizens to peacefully assemble as guaranteed by section 25 (d) of 1997 Constitution,” the president of the Gambia bar association, Saliu Taal, said in a press statement.

“In the same vein, we urge citizens to exercise their fundamental rights peacefully and within the ambit of the applicable laws.

“We are gravely concerned by the Government’s pronouncement purportedly proscribing the 3 Years
Jotna Movement and seeking to penalise any third party including the media from having any dealings or business with the movement.

“The Government of the Gambia is hereby reminded that all Gambians are entitled to enjoy the fundamental freedoms of thought, conscience and belief as well as the freedom of association which includes the freedom to form and join associations.

“These are fundamental rights guaranteed under our constitution. Furthermore, there is no requirement to register as an association or legal entity to enjoy the protection of the supreme law of the land.

“Further, the purported suspension of the operations of Home Digital FM and King FM as well as the
arrest of their proprietor and manager respectively is a troubling development.”

The association condemned the shutdown of two FM radios saying:”It is our view that the arbitrary suspension of the operations of these two broadcasters by law enforcement is not in accordance with the law and a very bad precedent for press freedom.

“The use of law enforcement to
suppress the operation of media operators is a stain on our nascent democracy and an affront to a
free press.

“The operation of radio stations is governed and regulated by law. We therefore expect that any suspension of the operations of radio broadcasters would be in accordance with the dictates of the applicable law.

“Whilst the Bar recognises the role of the Gambia Police Force in the maintenance of law and order, we strongly reiterate the need for restraint, as well as the legitimate and proportionate use of force to manage protests.

“We have credible reports of civilians including women being subjected to disproportionate use of force by the police. The heavy-handed use of force by the police is serious
cause for concern. This is unacceptable, regressive and conduct unbecoming of a professional security force; which will only further undermine the citizen’s trust and confidence in the police.”

Reporting by Adama Makasuba