The EF Small Centre for Rights and Justice (EFSCRJ) has issued a scathing condemnation of Alport Banjul’s decision to terminate the contract of citizen journalist and activist Kexx Sanneh, alleging the move was a direct attack on his constitutional right to freedom of assembly. The controversy stems from Sanneh’s participation in the Gambians Against Looted Assets (GALA) anti-corruption protests, which reportedly prompted government pressure on the company to sever ties with him.
According to Sanneh, Alport Banjul’s decision was influenced by his activism. “He [Salih] said the decision was influenced by my participation in demonstrations against the government, implying that their partnership with me became inconvenient,” Sanneh stated. Unbowed, he declared, “I would rather eat sand than stay silent in the face of corruption. I did not sign a contract to surrender my Gambian citizenship or to give up my constitutional rights to hold the government accountable. The struggle continues for a better Gambia.”
EFSCRJ, in a public statement, expressed solidarity with Sanneh, a founding member of GALA, which campaigns against corruption in Gambia. The organization accused Alport Banjul of violating Sections 25 and 26 of the 1997 Constitution, which guarantee the right to peaceful assembly and participation in public affairs. “Alport Banjul has not provided any evidence of Kexx violating his contract,” the statement read. “The activism of Kexx has not threatened or injured the reputation or business of Alport Banjul.”
The group further argued that the termination was not only illegal but also set a “dangerous precedent” that undermines human rights in Gambia. They labeled the company’s actions as interference in the country’s political affairs, accusing it of attempting to silence a citizen’s lawful engagement in national issues.
EFSCRJ issued three demands in response: the immediate reinstatement of Sanneh’s contract, urging Alport Banjul to comply with Gambian laws and respect workers’ rights; legal action against the company if it fails to comply, with EFSCRJ pledging support for Sanneh; and intervention by the Department of Labor and the National Human Rights Commission to ensure Alport Banjul upholds constitutional standards.
The organization praised Sanneh for his commitment to transparency and accountability, citing his adherence to Section 220 of the Constitution, which mandates citizens to uphold national duties. “2025 – The Year of Transparency and Accountability” was the rallying cry in their statement, emphasizing the broader fight for justice.
Sanneh’s case has ignited public debate, with many viewing it as a litmus test for Gambia’s commitment to democratic freedoms. As the controversy unfolds, all eyes are on Alport Banjul and the government to see how they respond to growing pressure from civil society. EFSCRJ’s call for action underscores the critical role of activism in holding both corporations and authorities accountable in Gambia’s evolving democracy.
