Minister of Works Ebrima Sillah has condemned recent anti-corruption protests, accusing participants of seeking to destabilise The Gambia.

Speaking at a National People’s Party (NPP) rally, Sillah said the government remained committed to protecting the democratic gains made under President Adama Barrow’s leadership. He also proposed a counter-demonstration to show public support for the administration and to highlight what he described as the strengthening of democracy in the country.

“We saw some people come out to protest, and their intention is to destabilise this country,” he said. “But we will also stage a counter-protest and seek a police permit to show the world that democracy is thriving in The Gambia.”

He added: “The streets don’t belong to anyone. If you think you can use people to stir chaos in this country, you are fooling yourself. We will defend the democracy of this country, and we will defend this government.”

However, Sillah’s comments have sparked backlash on social media, with critics accusing him of stoking division and undermining citizens’ constitutional right to peaceful protest.

The recent protest, held last week, was organised to call attention to alleged corruption in government. It remained peaceful and drew participants from across civil society.

By Adama Makasuba