By Buba Gagigo
The Gambia Police Force has granted a permit to the National Youth Wing of the National People’s Party (NPP) to protest against corruption in councils on 17 March 2023.
The permit reads in part:
“Be informed that permission has been granted to you to go ahead with your peaceful procession slated for 17 March 2023 commencing from 11:00hrs to 14:00hrs from Bond Road junction (Opposite Jah Oil) to the first gate of the National Assembly (opposite Christian Cemetery),” the police say.
The police, also said that they granted the permit based on the following conditions;
“A) That the procession is confined to the time scheduled given in this approved permit. B) That the procession starts from Bond Road junction to the first gate of the National
Assembly.
“C) That only a Five-Man delegation is permitted to deliver the petition to the National Assembly, through the first gate.
“D) That the press briefing be held at the front gate of the National Assembly building
“E) That the procession is confined within the limits of the law.
“F) That no derogatory words or remarks should be addressed to any person that will
eventually result to the breach of the peace.”
While the police say they will provide security for the procession, they warned that failure to comply with these conditions will result in the revocation of the permit and or criminal prosecution.
The National People’s Party Youth Wing applied for a permit a few days after the opposition United Democratic Party youth Wing was granted a permit to protest against corruption in the government.