By Alieu Ceesay
Gambians Against Looted Assets (GALA) on Friday evening commemorated its first anniversary with a low-key but resolute gathering at the Youth Moment center in Westfield, vowing to press on with its anti-corruption crusade despite ongoing police arrests and court charges against its members.
The movement, launched in May 2025, used the occasion to reflect on its journey of advocacy, public mobilization, and persistent demands for transparency in the management of public resources. GALA has consistently submitted petitions to government authorities calling for thorough investigations into alleged looting of state assets and for decisive actions to recover looted funds.
The commemoration took place amid legal proceedings, yet organizers proceeded with determination. Civil society organizations have rallied behind the group. Activista The Gambia and the Edward Francis Small Center for Human Rights and Justice issued a joint call for the government to drop all charges against GALA members.
“We call on the government of The Gambia to withdraw all cases against GALA members currently before the courts,” Activista stated.
“Criminalizing voices of conscience only weakens our democracy and undermines the very principles of justice that the state is bound to uphold.”
The evening featured a panel discussion led by prominent activists Mr. Madi Jobarteh and Mr. Marr Nyang, who engaged the audience on citizens’ rights, civic responsibilities, and the importance of holding leaders accountable. Attendees listened intently as the panelists dissected issues of governance and public resource management.
In a powerful address, GALA leader Hakim Touray reaffirmed the movement’s commitment.
“As we mark this anniversary, let it serve as a renewed declaration of our unwavering dedication to justice, accountability, and the complete eradication of corruption in our country,” Touray declared. “We will not relent. We will not be silenced, we will not be intimidated. And we will continue to stand firm until transparency, integrity, and good governance prevail.”
Solidarity messages poured in from fellow pressure groups. TeamGom Sabopa, represented by Lamin Sey, condemned attempts to stifle GALA’s activities.
“Your voices matter, your work matters, and your rights must be respected and protected,” Sey said. “We strongly condemn all actions that sought to undermine your freedoms and weaken your efforts. Such violations are not only attacks on your movement but also on the principles of human rights, democracy, and collective justice that unite us all.”
The event concluded with musical performances that lifted participants’ spirits, blending entertainment with the serious message of resistance to corruption.
One year on, GALA’s anniversary has underscored the growing resolve of Gambian civil society to demand better governance. Observers say the movement’s persistence, even in the face of legal hurdles, signals a maturing democratic culture where citizens refuse to be cowed into silence.
