Gambiaj.com – (Banjul, The Gambia) – The police on Tuesday summoned its former Public Relations Officer, Binta Njie, for questioning over a social media post she made in response to disparaging remarks about Kiang and its people by President Adama Barrow and National People’s Party (NPP) stalwart Baboucarr Bahoum.

According to police sources, Njie’s summons was linked to a viral post she made after Bahoum’s controversial statements circulated online. Bahoum, known for making inflammatory remarks about opposition figures, had reportedly insulted Kiang and its residents, prompting Njie—herself a Kiang native—to respond publicly.

Njie clarified in her post that she was speaking in her personal capacity as a concerned daughter of the region, not as a police officer. “First of all. I am not in any way politically affiliated, but I am Kianka and my people are not ingrates,” she said in her post.

“Recent remarks, such as those made by Baboucarr Bahoum calling Kiankas “ungrateful,” exemplify a dangerous trend where political frustrations are expressed through broad and harmful generalizations. Such statements do not only offend but also deepen divisions, fostering resentment that can erode social cohesion and stability” she explained.

However, her statement did not sit well with police leadership. Sources revealed that a senior officer directly contacted Njie, instructing her to delete the tweet. She refused, asserting that her comments were personal and aimed at defending her community’s dignity.

In response to her defiance, police authorities summoned Njie for further interrogation. Police spokesperson Momodou Musa Sisawo emphasized that Njie was neither under investigation nor in custody. He stated that summoning officers to discuss their public remarks was routine practice within the force.

Sisawo further explained that Njie had been on a brief leave following the country’s Independence celebration and was invited to discuss the matter upon her return. He assured that updates would be provided as the situation unfolded.

However, in a statement released on Tuesday evening, the police emphasized that all officers, including ASP Njie, are subject to internal procedures designed to maintain the institution’s integrity and impartiality. “Officers are expected to maintain the highest standards of behavior and refrain from actions that could undermine the reputation of the Force,” a press release stated.

While the police stressed that ASP Njie had not been detained or investigated in connection with the post, they did indicate that the matter will be handled administratively. The police stated that it would handle the incident via established disciplinary procedures, but no specifics regarding the content of the post or the nature of the breach were provided.

Meanwhile, Bahoum, whose remarks triggered Njie’s response, was reportedly arrested but later released without charge. His comments, which targeted Kiang and its people, have sparked widespread condemnation, fueling further debate on political rhetoric, the police’s perceived bias with pro-government supporters, and the respect owed to local communities in The Gambia.