The United Democratic Party (UDP) strongly condemns the teargassing of peaceful civilians at the Buffer Zone on Independence Day. In a statement released Sunday, UDP expressed dismay at the disproportionate use of force during a civilian event organized by the splinter group of the APRC, known as “NO TO ALLIANCE,” which included five elected National Assembly Members.
ANM Ousainu Darbo, Secretary General & Party Leader, called on the Inspector General of Police to apologize unreservedly to the event organizers and compensate for any harm caused. The statement criticized the police’s actions, stating that such tactics were reminiscent of the brutal dictatorship the nation is moving away from.
The UDP highlighted the irony of the incident occurring just after the National Dialogue aimed at reforming Gambian politics. The statement emphasized the importance of democratic principles and the rule of law in such dialogues.
The UDP also expressed concern over the resurgence of APRC’s politicization of state institutions since the appointment of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly in 2022. The party criticized arbitrary arrests, detention, and state violence, urging security forces and public servants to uphold their oaths and serve the constitution impartially.
In conclusion, the statement stressed the importance of protecting human rights and ensuring equal justice for all citizens. The UDP called for collective responsibility in safeguarding the state and urged against using violence to settle political differences, especially after committing to dialogue for political reform.