Gambians Against Looted Assets (GALA), a civil society group campaigning against corruption, has been granted official permission to hold a protest in the Kanifing Region next week.

The group plans to stage a peaceful march on Tuesday, 23 July, to demand the recovery of public funds allegedly looted by current and former officials.

The demonstration is scheduled to begin at 11:00 local time at Iceman Junction in Kanifing and conclude at 13:30 at the Youth Monument in Westfield.

In a letter addressed to the group, the Office of the Inspector General of Police confirmed the protest has been approved, but must follow specific conditions.

The march must remain within the approved route and time, only a five-person delegation will be allowed to deliver petitions to relevant institutions, and any press briefing must be held at the front gate of the Youth Monument, opposite St Therese’s Church.

Police also warned that protesters must act within the limits of the law and avoid using inflammatory or derogatory language.

Failure to comply with these terms could result in the permit being revoked and potential legal action.

Security for the event will be provided by officers from the Kanifing Regional Command.

GALA has welcomed the permit and pledged to adhere to all conditions.

“This protest is not just about past corruption, it’s about demanding justice and accountability now. Gambians deserve to know where their money went, and what’s being done to get it back,” the group said.

GALA has been vocal in its calls for greater transparency in government and the recovery of assets misappropriated during previous administrations.

It has not ruled out further actions if progress remains slow.

By Adama Makasuba