GAP demands reversal of Mile II prison sale, calls move “wasteful and disgraceful”

By Dawda Baldeh

The opposition Gambia Action Party (GAP) has sharply criticised the government over the alleged sale of Mile II State Central Prison, urging an immediate cancellation of the agreement and warning that the decision undermines national security and heritage.

Speaking to The Fatu Network, GAP leader Musa Ousainou Yali Batchilly expressed alarm at the reported sale of the country’s most secure detention facility.

“Mile II has been a facility that has housed high-profile offenders and dealt with some of the most sensitive matters in our national history for many years. Its strategic location, reinforced structure, and secure environment were intentionally designed to prevent external interference and hinder the easy escape of inmates,” he said.

Batchilly argued that marketing such a facility raises serious doubts about the judgment and priorities of the current administration. He insisted that instead of selling Mile II, the government should have pursued the more economical option of modernising and enhancing the prison.

“Building a new prison will undoubtedly impose a significant financial strain on the state—a burden that the country cannot afford amidst increasing living expenses, security issues, and competing national demands. To forsake such a purpose-built institution in favor of an expensive alternative is a profoundly wasteful and disgraceful act that demonstrates poor administrative foresight and a lack of prudent resource management,” he added.

He noted that successive governments since the First Republic have recognised the importance of protecting historical, cultural, and security landmarks.

“Mile II is not just a prison; it represents a national symbol and is a crucial part of our security framework. For this administration to overlook decades of institutional knowledge and national interest raises the question: who advised the government on such a misguided decision?” he asked.

Batchilly stressed that Gambians deserve transparency, justification, and accountability for actions that threaten public safety and compromise the integrity of the state. He urged the government to rescind and annul the sale, recommitting to disciplined and accountable management of national resources.

“National security is not for sale, and GAP will remain steadfast in defending the sovereignty, safety, and collective heritage of the Gambian people,” he concluded.

 By Dawda Baldeh The opposition Gambia Action Party (GAP) has sharply criticised the government over the alleged sale of Mile II State Central Prison, urging an immediate cancellation of the agreement and warning that the decision undermines national security and heritage. Speaking to The Fatu Network, GAP leader Musa Ousainou Yali Batchilly expressed alarm at The Fatu Network