The Kanifing Magistrate’s Court has remanded 23 individuals, including rapper activist Killa Ace also known as Ali Cham, to Mile II Central Prison until 4 September 2025.

The defendants appeared before Principal Magistrate Touray on Monday afternoon following a protest organised by the People’s United for Reform and Accountability (PURA) along Kairaba Avenue on 23 August 2025.

Authorities said the demonstration was held without a permit from the Inspector General of Police, making it an unlawful assembly.

According to the charge sheet, the protest “lacked lawful authority” and was deemed likely to cause a breach of the peace.

The 23 accused, who include Yusuf Taylor, Lamin Daffeh, Lamin Sey, Badou Secka, Tumani Colley, Abdouli T. Bah, Alieu Sarr, Bakary Jammeh, Musa Conteh, Rofine Camara, Ansumana Touray, Bakary J. Sanyang, Lamin FM Marigo, Yahya Jaiteh, Sisaho Danso, Sulayman Manga, Ebrima Jatta, Ebrima B. Keita, Musa Sanyang, Musa Sisoho, and Ebrima Jallow, all pleaded not guilty.

The Public Utilities Regulatory Authority, oversees utilities such as electricity, water, and energy tariffs in The Gambia. Public protests, including those against utility policies or price hikes, require prior approval from the police under the Public Order Act.

Demonstrations held without a permit are considered unlawful and have previously led to arrests and court cases, reflecting ongoing tensions between authorities and civic activists over public dissent.

The court has adjourned the case to 4 September 2025 at 12:30 p.m. for further proceedings.

By Adama Makasuba