In a decisive move to restore order, Gambia’s Inspector General of Police, Seedy Mukhtar Touray, declared that no gathering may occur without an approved permit. The statement, issued late Thursday, came after police used tear gas earlier in the week to disperse crowds protesting prolonged electricity outages during the nation’s hottest months.
Background to the unrest
Multiple nights of demonstrations highlighted growing frustration with President Adama Barrow as the country heads toward national elections in December. Protesters cited the inability to run basic businesses or even stay comfortable at home without reliable power, especially during extreme heat.
Mayor Talib Ahmed Bensouda of Kanifing Municipality, who plans to challenge Barrow, told Reuters he understood the anger. “If you can’t sit in your house because of the heat, if you don’t have a generator to do basic business… you’re forced to take the matter to the streets,” he said, adding that while he does not support the protests, the grievances are real.
Police response and arrests
Touray’s statement warned that any violation of the new permit rule would be met with “necessary force.” He also reported that a police post was vandalised during the unrest and that “detainees were unlawfully released from custody.” The police have arrested 11 individuals linked to the vandalism.
Utility damage and government action
The National Water and Electricity Company Ltd (NAWEC) confirmed that three of its branches were forced to close after attacks severely damaged buildings, infrastructure, and office equipment. NAWEC attributed the surge in electricity demand to an “unforeseen surge” during the peak heat period.
President Barrow visited NAWEC facilities on Tuesday, promising swift relief. He announced that new generators would arrive within the week and that the country expects to restore electricity by the end of October. Barrow also said the government is in the final stage of installing an additional 24‑megawatt generation unit and has awarded a contract for a 50‑megawatt solar power plant.
Criticism of energy policy
Despite the promises, Bensouda criticized Barrow’s reliance on imported energy, warning that Gambia remains vulnerable to global supply disruptions. “Youth are frustrated, and it’s not just about energy. They’re frustrated about a lot of things, including a lack of opportunity, which drives irregular migration to Europe,” he said.
Implications for the upcoming election
The crackdown on unpermitted protests comes as the December election approaches, raising questions about how the administration will balance public order with citizens’ right to assemble. While the government frames the permit requirement as a measure to protect peace and tranquility, opposition figures argue it may suppress legitimate dissent.
International observers have noted the tension between maintaining stability and respecting civil liberties in emerging democracies. The Gambia’s next steps will likely influence voter sentiment as the country heads toward a pivotal electoral contest.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
