By Buba Gagigo
The Office of the Inspector-General of Police has requested that the opposition United Democratic Party (UDP) reschedule its planned nationwide tour, which was scheduled to commenced on Thursday, November 28, 2024.
The request cites the deployment of a significant number of security personnel for the President’s ongoing “Meet the People” tour, which has stretched the police’s resources.
In a letter dated November 17, 2024, the police explained that due to the constitutional requirements of the Presidential tour, the Gambia Police Force has had to allocate a large number of officers to ensure security, leaving them unable to manage additional tours concurrently. The police advised the UDP to reschedule its tour for a later date, following the conclusion of the Presidential tour.
“Office of the Inspector-General of Police acknowledges receipt of your missive dated 17th November 2024 in relation to the aforementioned subject. Kindly be informed, based on the Constitutional mandate of the Presidential tour, the Gambia Police Force have overwhelmingly deployed its officers to ensure safety and security which has overstretched its resources. Base on the above, the Gambia Police Force cannot police parallel tour at the same time. This office hereby advises you to reschedule your dates to after the ongoing Presidential tour,” The Police informed the UDP in a letter obtained by Kerr Fatou.
The Inspector-General’s office reassured the UDP of its continued commitment to maintaining peace and security.
“Please accept his office (IGP) highest consideration and esteem at all times,” the letter concluded.
As of the time of publication, the United Democratic Party has not issued an official response to the police request. We have contacted the party and will provide updates as soon as their reaction is received.