By Buba Gagigo
The Gambia Police Force has issued a warning to University of The Gambia (UTG) students, advising them against holding an unauthorized protest over the recent dismissal of two senior lecturers. The protest was planned to take place on Monday, December 2, 2024, at the university’s Kanifing campus.
In a statement released ahead of a planned demonstration at the UTG Kanifing Campus, the police emphasized the illegality of unauthorized protests.
“The Gambia Police Force strongly warns against any unauthorized protests, including the purported demonstration allegedly planned for tomorrow, Monday, December 2, 2024, at Kanifing by a group of University of The Gambia students. Protests or public gatherings without the necessary permit are illegal and will not be tolerated,” the police said.
The GPF stated that they have made significant efforts to engage with the ECOMANSA student association, a subsidiary of the UTG Students’ Union, in an attempt to reach a mutual understanding concerning their request for a protest permit.
“Following constructive dialogue, a resolution was reached to cancel the proposed protest. However, it has come to the attention of the police that a faction of students is disregarding this resolution and defying the position of the main student union and its sub-association. This act of defiance poses a serious threat to public order, peace, and safety. The GPF hereby issues a stern warning: it is illegal for any person(s) to occupy public spaces to protest or demonstrate without obtaining a police permit. Any individual or group found participating in an unauthorized protest without a permit will face the full force of the law,” the police said.The controversy stems from the recent dismissal of two senior UTG lecturers, Dr. Alieu Gibba and Professor Matarr Njie, who had publicly criticized the university administration for alleged nepotism, favoritism, and lack of motivation. In response to their sacking, some students have vowed to demonstrate in solidarity, despite the police warning.