Today, Wednesday, July 23, 2025, the streets of Kanifing Municipality will come alive as Gambians Against Looted Assets (GALA) leads a historic, peaceful protest to demand accountability, transparency, and an end to corruption in The Gambia.
After productive discussions and the successful granting of a police permit, GALA has finalized plans for the demonstration, scheduled to start at 11:00 AM sharp and begin at Iceman, culminating at Westfield. Organizers call it a “national call to action,” urging citizens of all ages to join what they hope will be the largest protest in the nation’s history.
The protest comes at a critical juncture for The Gambia, where public frustration over systemic corruption, looted public funds, and bad governance has reached a boiling point. GALA’s message is clear: “Enough is enough.”
In a statement released on social media, the group declared, “For too long, corruption has eaten deep into the fabric of our nation, stealing opportunities, silencing voices, and crippling progress. This is not just a march but a stand against impunity, a collective cry for change.”
The group’s plan for the July 23 protest emphasizes unity and discipline, aiming to maintain peace while delivering a powerful message. “We are calling on every citizen, young and old, to rise and speak out,” GALA stated, encouraging widespread participation to amplify their demand for a Gambia free from corruption, where the rule of law prevails, and leaders are held accountable.
The hashtags #GALAProtest and #StandAgainstCorruption have already gained significant traction online with activists, and politicians like human rights activist Madi Jobarteh, Kanifing Municipal Council Mayor, Talib Ahmed Bensuoda, Brikama Area Council Chairman, Yankuba Darboe along with Mansa Konko Area Council Chairperson Landing Sanneh all joining the movement in solidarity, reflecting growing public support for the movement.
GALA’s application for the protest permit was approved after constructive dialogue with the police, who have committed to ensuring public safety during the event. The permit’s approval underscores the group’s commitment to lawful and peaceful assembly, a cornerstone of their campaign for democratic values.
Authorities will work closely with organizers to manage the march’s flow and maintain order, allowing participants to express their grievances without disruption.
The protest’s focus on looted assets and governance failures resonates deeply in a country grappling with economic hardship and widespread disillusionment. Corruption has long been a significant barrier to development in The Gambia, with public funds allegedly misappropriated, while critical services such as healthcare and education suffer.
GALA’s call to action has resonated, particularly among young people, who view the protest as an opportunity to demand a better future. “We will no longer stay silent while corruption destroys our future,” GALA’s statement read, encapsulating the urgency of their mission.
As preparations intensify, GALA is mobilizing supporters across Kanifing Municipality and beyond, with outreach efforts targeting urban and rural communities.
The group has called for participants to march with purpose and unity, emphasizing that the demonstration is a collective effort to reclaim the nation’s integrity. Organizers also urge protesters to adhere to non-violent principles, ensuring the event remains a powerful yet peaceful expression of public will.
The July 23 protest is poised to be a defining moment for The Gambia, as citizens approach the streets to demand systemic change. With GALA leading the charge, the event could mark a turning point in the fight against corruption, galvanizing a movement for accountability and justice.
