Tensions are escalating as protesters have vowed to remain on the streets until all five government institutions they petitioned send representatives to receive their petition.

Despite efforts by the country’s Solicitor General and senior police officer Pateh Jallow to defuse the situation, demonstrators remain resolute, refusing to move.

The protesters say there was an agreement that officials from all five institutions would be present to collect the petition letter today. They accuse some state officials of disrespecting their mandate to serve the public.

Lamin Sey, a leader of civil society group Gambians Against Looted Assets (GALA), said: “This shows how disrespectful these so-called authorities are. We communicated clearly to them, why are they treating us like fools?

“They may think they own these institutions, but these institutions belong to the people of The Gambia. We are not moving and will block the entire road until they come to collect their petition.”

Another protester added: “these officials are servants of the people and have no authority above us. It’s a simple matter for them to come and do their duty.”

The government has not yet responded to the ongoing standoff.

By Adama Makasuba