By Omar Bah
The Gambia government, 3 Years Jotna and members of the civil society have issued joint communique calling for calm and restraint.
The Movement had vowed to stage a protest yesterday with or without a permit
But a last-minute deal was struck on Friday between the government and the movement at a meeting held at the Interior Ministry, with both sides making some concessions.
The Jotna movement agreed to call off Sunday’s protest while the police have agreed to issue them a permit to protest on 26 January.
A joint communique read by TANGO chairperson John Charles Njie stated: “The Gambia government through the police force and other security forces commits to provide security and other protection for the planned 3-Years Jotna procession. The government also further reassures all and sundry that it will continue to uphold and protect the rights of all.”
“Accordingly, the 3-years jotna movement confirm that they have no intention of uprooting the president and hereby categorically condemn and disassociates itself from any negative audio or written comments in circulation that are found to be abusive and threatening to persons, peace and stability of the country,” the communique added.
“We called on all Gambians to remain civil in all their comments. The Gambia remains a conducive and safe destination for travel and business,” it said.
