Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – Ebrima Dibba, Deputy Organizing Secretary of the United Democratic Party (UDP), has strongly rebuked Inspector General of Police (IGP) Seedy Touray’s recent admonition regarding speeches considered disrespectful to elders and leaders in The Gambia. Dibba asserted that efforts to silence his political party through police intimidation would be futile.
On June 14, 2024, IGP Touray emphasized the cultural significance of respecting elders and leaders, drawing on his upbringing to highlight the importance of discipline and societal norms. “Issues like tribal bigotry, violent rhetoric, insulting our elders, and insulting our leaders, must cease in this country,” Touray stated, promising that there would be no selective justice and warning against defying his directives.
Responding to Touray’s remarks on Kerr Fatou, Dibba, who was recently detained for making derogatory comments about the president, did not hold back. He questioned the new IGP’s appointment, noting his familial connection to President Barrow. “The IGP is a technocrat and former immigration officer, now appointed as police chief for reasons best known to the President, who is his brother-in-law,” Dibba remarked, emphasizing that the country should be governed by just laws, not personal relationships.
Dibba called for government accountability, stressing the need for transparency and adherence to the rule of law. He criticized the current administration for maintaining outdated laws from the previous government and urged President Barrow to introduce new, effective legislation. “The IGP’s threats of police intimidation won’t work. He should tell his in-law, President Barrow, to introduce good laws that can govern the people fairly,” Dibba stated.
Highlighting the 2021 rejection of a draft constitution that would have limited President Barrow’s term to 2026, Dibba urged the President to revive this draft. He emphasized that without new laws, The Gambia would continue to suffer from stagnation and lack of progress. “Reintroduce the new draft constitution. If laws are violated, they should take their course. However, if the IGP tries to control everything, it will be problematic. His plans won’t succeed here,” Dibba warned.
Dibba concluded by insisting that President Barrow must fulfill his promises to the Gambian people and not rely on authority alone to govern. He urged for the implementation of good laws for the country’s benefit, predicting potential legal battles ahead. “We will not tolerate a 15-year rule from President Barrow; it won’t happen,” Dibba asserted.
