Gambia: Solidarity march scheduled in Banjul January 12

Event

The Gambia For 5 Years and Peace Building group has scheduled a pro-government rally in Banjul on Sunday, January 12, in order to support President Adama Barrow amid opposition to his serving a five-year term. Participants are expected to march on the Banjul Serrekunda motorway up to Denton Bridge.

A heightened security presence and transportation disruptions are to be expected along the march route. Counter-protests are possible.

Context

Barrow came to power in 2017 after longtime incumbent Yahya Jammeh was forced into exile. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) stipulated that Barrow would serve for just three years as a transitional president before new elections could be held. However, Barrow has since indicated that the MOU should not override the five-year term set out in the constitution.

Advice

Individuals in Banjul are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all public demonstrations as a precaution, and anticipate localized disruption.