Essa Mbye Faal in a press conference yesterday advised president Barrow to learn from the lessons of the past—the April 10th and 11th, 2000 student demonstrations and other unlawful incidents such as the 2010 and 2014 arrests of Solo Sandeng, as well as the arrest of Lawyer Ousainou Darboe and his team—to ensure peace in the country and avoid history from repeating itself.
The APP-SOBEYAA party, in collaboration with representatives from Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC), National Unity Party (NUP), and People’s Alliance Party (PAP), on May 9th held a press conference to address the pressing issue of the arrest and detainment of some Gambian youths who were protesting for the disposal of the former president’s assets without public knowledge or consent.
The youths attempted to exercise their constitutional right to peaceful protest by lawfully applying for a police permit but were denied.
The opposition parties clearly stated their interest in ensuring the arrested youths are released, while carefully ensuring their actions remain within the confines of the law.
Essa Mbye Faal, party leader of the APP-SOBEYAA Party, delivered the collaborative speech of the said parties. The opposition parties joined hands to express their utter dismay at pressing issues happening in The Gambia—specifically the unwarranted arrest of peaceful protesters.
Their demands include:
Immediate release of all arrested youths without any charges
Respect for constitutional rights, including the right to peaceful protest and freedom of expression
Transparency regarding the assets of the former president, with detailed reports on their sale and buyers
Meaningful dialogue between the government and stakeholders, including youths and civil society, to address public grievances
During the Q&A session, Essa Faal was asked what they would do if the youths were not released. He answered by saying they will make legal arrangements and see to it that these youths are released without any charges. If the authorities fail to do so, he added, “We hope to see them in court on Monday.”
Another question posed was whether the opposition is ready to join forces to remove the president in 2026. Faal responded, saying, “This press conference is a testimony of that,” and expressed hope that they will unite to bring about change.
The opposition parties urged international communities to support their democratic aspirations and assured the Gambian people that they will do everything within the confines of the law to hold those in power accountable. They reaffirmed their commitment to tirelessly advocate for the rights of Gambians.
