The Gambia’s Inspector General of Police, Seedy Muctarr Touray, has publicly addressed the controversial case involving ASP Binta Njie, which has sparked heated debate among Gambians on social media.

ASP Binta Njie came under scrutiny following a social media post in which she condemned a prominent member of the ruling National People’s Party, Baboucarr Bahoum, who had insulted the Kiang people, calling them “ungrateful” for voting for a United Democratic Party candidate in the recent Massembeh by-election.

Mr. Bahoum, known for using offensive language against his political opponents, later apologised after facing widespread condemnation from Gambians.

He was reportedly summoned for questioning and subsequently released, which has been described as a resolution for Bahoum.

Meanwhile, reports surfaced that ASP Binta Njie was also called in and ordered to remove her post, amid the possibility of disciplinary action.

In response to the controversy, IGP Touray told reporters at a news conference: “The Police Force is regulated by various instruments. We are talking about the Police Act, our Code of Conduct, the General Orders, and Civil Service Rules and Regulations, all of which prohibit serving members of the force from commenting on or interfering with the internal politics of the nation.”

He also refuted reports claiming that the officer was intimidated, calling them “false,” and added, “There is no intimidation. My colleague, ASP Binta Njie, the little I know of her, would not say she’s been intimidated.”

According to him, it is the sovereign right of every police officer to be affiliated with a political party, but this affiliation must not be expressed publicly as long as they are wearing the uniform.

By Adama Makasuba