In a significant development for civic activism in The Gambia, the Gambians Against Looted Assets (GALA) has successfully obtained a police permit to hold a peaceful protest against corruption, injustice, and bad governance. The demonstration is set to take place on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at 11:00 AM, starting from Iceman and proceeding to Westfield in Kanifing Municipality.
Following productive discussions with law enforcement, GALA announced the approval of their application, marking a victory for the group’s mission to mobilize citizens in a unified stand against systemic issues plaguing the nation. The protest is being billed as a “national call to action,” with organizers urging Gambians to make it the largest demonstration in the country’s history.
“This is not just a protest; it’s a movement to reclaim our nation’s integrity,” said a GALA spokesperson, Omar Saibo Camara. “We are calling on every Gambian to join us on July 23 to send a clear message that corruption and bad governance will no longer be tolerated.”
The decision to grant the permit follows GALA’s formal application, which emphasized the group’s commitment to a peaceful and orderly event. The police, after reviewing the proposal, agreed to facilitate the protest, ensuring public safety while upholding the right to free assembly. Authorities have pledged to work closely with GALA to maintain order during the march.
The protest’s focus on looted assets and governance issues resonates deeply in a country grappling with economic challenges and public discontent over mismanagement. GALA’s campaign has gained traction on social media, with hashtags like #GALAProtest and #StandAgainstCorruption trending in recent weeks. Organizers hope the event will galvanize citizens, particularly the youth, to demand accountability and transparency from their leaders.
As the date approaches, GALA is mobilizing supporters across the Kanifing Municipality and beyond, encouraging widespread participation to amplify their message. The group has called for discipline and unity, emphasizing that the protest will remain peaceful to reflect the democratic values they champion.
With the stage set for July 23, all eyes are on The Gambia as citizens prepare to make their voices heard in what could be a historic moment for the nation’s fight against corruption.
