This is to inform all interested Political parties, CSOs, individuals, and the general public that a permit has been granted by the IGP to hold a peaceful procession. The event is scheduled for Saturday, August 23, and aims to protest against the illegal issuance of Gambia National ID Cards in foreign lands. This is not just an isolated problem; it’s a NATIONAL issue requiring URGENT attention and action.
The illegal distribution of National ID Cards undermines the integrity of our nation’s identity system. When ID cards are issued outside the country’s jurisdiction without proper verification, it poses risks to national security and the sanity of the Gambia’s citizenship. These actions potentially allow individuals with no rightful claim to Gambian citizenship to exploit our systems, affecting not just governance, but the very fabric of our nation.
This protest is organized with a clear message to the authorities including the IEC, Ministry of Interior, and the National Assembly.These institutions will all respectfully recieve their petitions. These bodies have a responsibility to protect the sanity of our nation’s democratic direction. Our peaceful procession is aimed at ensuring that they acknowledge and act on this obligation.
As individuals who deeply care about the future of our nation, we are alarmed by the increasing nomination fees for elective positions. This issue directly affects those who aspire to serve our communities and drive positive change but are financially constrained. The escalating fees not only hinder passionate and qualified candidates but also diminishes the democratic foundation by limiting equal opportunities.
Compounding this issue is the growing prevalence of tribal and hate speech within our political discourse. This divisive rethoric undermines the unity of our nation and sows seeds of discord among its people. The combination of hefty nomination fees and deteriorating political civility threatens the essence of a participatory democracy where every voice should be heard and valued.
We call on all citizens who share our concerns about these pressing issues to join us in this petition. By collectively raising our voices, we can advocate for a more inclusive political system that encourages participation from all segments of society, devoid of financial barriers and harmful rethoric. Let us protect the integrity of our political discourse and ensure a better future for all.
Join us this Saturday at the Election House Bertil Hading Highway at 11 AM in this crucial cause. Your presence is vital to making a meaningful change and preserving a democratic space where ideas can flourish without economic or discriminatory barriers.
UDP National Youth Wing
21 August 2025
