13 Jan 2020 | 02:11 PM UTC
Gambia: Opposition protest possible on January 16
Opposition protest to demand the return of former president from exile scheduled on January 16; avoid all gatherings
Event
The Alliance for Patriotic Reorientation and Construction (APRC) opposition party announced it will to organize protests on Thursday, January 16, to call for the return of former President Yahya Jammeh from exile.
While the protest's location remains unknown, heightened security measures, counter-protests and transportation disruptions are likely in the vicinity of any demonstration site, should they take place. Similar protests are possible over the coming days and weeks.
Context
Former President Yahya Jammeh went into political exile on January 21, 2017, after losing the December 2016 presidential elections, stepping down from power after 22 years of presidency. As of early 2020, he remains in Equatorial Guinea but has expressed his desire to return to the Gambia, angering parts of the population. Tensions remain high between pro- and anti-Jammeh supporters.
Advice
Individuals present in the Gambia are advised to exercise caution and maintain a low profile at all times, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and obey any instructions issued by the local authorities.
