By: Alieu Ceesay
A violent confrontation between the neighboring communities of Perai Tenda and Waliba Kunda in the Upper River Region resulted in severe injuries to at least ten individuals. The conflict arose from both communities asserting their rightful ownership over a piece of contested farmland, which led to the clash.
This represents the most recent in a series of disputes spanning several years, with the two communities continuing to disagree over the ownership of the said land.
Local sources indicate that the disputed land case is before the Gambia’s Court of Appeal. A ruling is pending following an initial judgment by the Basse Magistrates Court, which ruled in favor of Waliba Kunda.
On July 11, 2024, over ten individuals sustained severe injuries, with multiple victims now being treated at Basse Major Hospital. Amidst the escalating conflict, the government is facing criticism for its insufficient response to the ongoing violence.
“This ongoing land dispute between Perai Tenda and Waliba Kunda has been ignored for too long by the authorities,” said a local elder who wished to remain anonymous.
“The government is aware of the problem, but they do little or nothing to address it. This negligence is turning our country into a lawless state where people take the law into their own hands.”
The conflict highlights a broader problem of inefficiency in the Gambian judiciary. Numerous villagers believe the judiciary does not sufficiently respect or serve the populace.
“How can the judiciary ask Gambians to give them a huge amount of money for their needs at the expense of poor taxpayers while delaying proceedings that affect our lives and livelihoods?” asked Foday Drammeh, one of the villagers and a frustrated resident.
“Justice delayed is always justice denied. When there are delays, ordinary men and women take the law into their own hands, leading to negative consequences for our lives and properties.”
The situation has also highlighted a significant challenge in The Gambia: inadequate land dispute resolution.
“The government, under President Adama Barrow, lacks the political will to put a big stop to all land-related issues in the country,” said a local activist.
“Sending letters to the communities, asking them to refrain from cultivating the land, is not a solution. It has severe economic impacts on those who rely on the land for their livelihood.”
Many call for a more decisive and timely judicial intervention as tensions rise.
“Let our courts serve judgment over this particular land so that the two communities can be at peace,” urged another concerned resident. “We need swift and fair resolutions to prevent further violence. Justice delayed is always justice denied.”
The repeated clashes between Perai Tenda and Waliba Kunda are a stark reminder of the importance of effective governance and the rule of law.
“We will never know the value of peace until we lose it as a country,” warned Drammeh. “The Gambia and her people are known for their peace and respect for laws, but the state’s lackadaisical attitudes are causing people to take the law into their own hands. This must stop.”
According to these residents, the land case is before the Gambia Court of Appeal. Surprisingly, Waliba Kunda youths are attempting to use the land.
Currently, the communities of Perai Tenda and Waliba Kunda are in a state of unease, awaiting a resolution to bring back peace and stability.
