Gambians Against Looted Assets (GALA), an emerging anti-corruption movement, has accused the Gambian government and Registrar Marie Gomez of the Attorney General’s Chambers of conspiring to block its formal registration, alleging a deliberate effort to suppress their fight against corruption.
In a strongly worded press statement, GALA decried the rejection as a violation of their constitutional rights and a sign of the government’s reluctance to be held accountable.
GALA, which aims to transition from a grassroots moment to a structured movement, has been working to establish a legal framework, including a Central Committee and Regional Representatives. However, their efforts to register as an association were thwarted by Gomez, who verbally informed them that their application was rejected because their name includes the word “Gambians.” GALA countered that the 1997 Constitution of The Gambia and related laws only restrict the use of “The Gambia” in names, not “Gambians.” They also clarified that they seek no government patronage, emphasizing their independence.
Despite pointing out these legal distinctions, GALA claims the registrar and the government blatantly disregarded the law. “We fulfilled all requirements as per Section 25 of the 1997 Constitution, which guarantees our right to form an association,” the group stated. “The refusal to register us is a clear attempt to silence dissent and normalize corruption.”
The group’s statement directly criticized President Adama Barrow’s administration, accusing it of undermining its own anti-corruption rhetoric.
“The Barrow government is proving to be unreliable in its stance against corruption because it is normalizing the act, suppressing dissent, and rejecting the establishment of an Association that dares to hold it accountable,” GALA declared. They argue that this rejection reflects a broader pattern of stifling voices that demand transparency and accountability.
Undeterred, GALA vowed to continue its mission, regardless of state approval. “We were trying to exist as a legal entity to pursue diplomatic means to solving problems, but it is clear that this government does not understand any other language except protests,” the statement read. The group warned that the consequences of the government’s actions “could be severe,” signaling their readiness to escalate their efforts through public action if necessary.
GALA positions itself as a “people-powered movement” dedicated to fighting corruption, promoting transparency, and upholding accountability in line with Gambian laws. They called on individuals and organizations to support their cause, emphasizing that their work is for the “common good.” Quoting the legal maxim, “Be you ever so high, the law is above you,” GALA underscored their belief that no one, including government officials, is exempt from accountability.
The group’s accusations have sparked concerns about the state of civic freedoms in The Gambia, a country still navigating its democratic transition after decades of autocratic rule under former President Yahya Jammeh. GALA’s struggle to register raises questions about the government’s commitment to fostering an environment where civil society can operate freely.
As GALA prepares to move forward, its defiance signals a growing tension between the government and civil society groups seeking to hold it accountable. The outcome of this standoff could shape the future of anti-corruption efforts in The Gambia, with GALA determined to remain a force for change, regardless of the obstacles placed in its path.
