A Gambian lawmaker has drawn widespread criticism after describing youth-led protesters as “cockroaches and mice”.

Alhagie Babou Ceesay, the National Assembly member for Sabach Sanjal, made the remarks during a parliamentary debate on a motion to establish an inquiry into the sale of assets belonging to former President Yahya Jammeh.

“We are very happy that we now have democracy in this country. Now that the cockroaches and mice are all going to the streets illegally (to protest),” he said, referring to the protesters.

He made the outrageous remarks during his deliberation on the parliament-approved motion to set up an inquiry into the sale of assets belonging to former Gambian President Yahya Jammeh.

Ceesay’s utterance has ignited anger among members of Gambians Against Looted Assets, prompting them to walk out of the chamber in protest.

He also criticized individuals who incite youth into trouble, while urging young people to refuse being used.

According to him, the group should have taken the matter to court after being denied a permit to protest, rather than taking to the streets.

“If you think that the IGP denied you your constitutional right, what you should have done is go to the courts, not to the streets.

“It’s illegal, and I am condemning you. I am not encouraging you to do that next time,” he added.

By Adama Makasuba