Gambiaj.com – (Banjul, The Gambia) – The Gambia Police Force (GPF) has issued a stern reminder to its officers to refrain from public criticism of the institution, warning that such conduct undermines discipline, erodes public trust, and risks compromising national security.
In a statement released on Thursday, the GPF said while it welcomes suggestions and constructive criticism from both the public and serving members, such input must be channeled through the Office of the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and not made on social media or other public platforms.
The announcement expressed concern that “much of the criticism directed at the institution is subjective rather than objective, creating misunderstandings and encouraging individuals to act contrary to the law.”
Particularly singled out was Superintendent of Police David Kujabi, the former spokesperson of the Force, has in recent weeks published opinion pieces on social media questioning the government’s handling of protests and urging the police to adopt conflict-sensitive approaches in law enforcement.
In one widely discussed post titled “Are We Solving a Problem or Stoking a Fire that May Burn Us All,” Kujabi warned against the arrest and prosecution of youths for participating in peaceful protests without a permit, cautioning that such measures could escalate tensions rather than resolve grievances.
Drawing from examples in other countries, he argued that attempts to silence dissent had often led to wider instability.
In another piece, “Conflict Sensitivity and Law Enforcement in The Gambia”, he emphasized the need for the GPF to strike a balance between enforcing the law and respecting citizens’ rights, urging officers to act in ways that build community trust rather than fuel confrontation.
The police leadership, however, described such interventions by serving officers as “conduct unbecoming,” stressing that internal disagreements must not be aired publicly. “Public disagreements and unregulated commentary not only undermine the integrity of the Force but also compromise national peace and security,” the statement said.
The GPF urged officers to remain guided by ethics, loyalty, and institutional processes, warning that violations of service conditions will not be tolerated.
Observers note that this development underscores the tension between calls for reform and accountability within The Gambia’s security sector and the leadership’s insistence on discipline and hierarchy.
Kujabi’s interventions had resonated with sections of the public who view them as necessary voices in a fragile democracy, but his public commentary has now drawn sharp rebuke from the institution he serves.
