The ruling of the court to release members of Gambians Against Looted Assets (GALA) from police custody has been widely discussed across The Gambia with many citizens and activists welcoming the ruling of the court. The members of the group had been arrested during a gathering in Westfield to mark the first anniversary of GALA.
The incident was reported to have taken place on 8 May 2026 at the Youth Monument in Kanifing Municipality where supporters and members of the movement had gathered for the event. The police later intervened saying the group did not have permission to hold a public gathering, although the organisers were reported to have received the green light from the Kanifing Municipal Council.
The arrests quickly raised concerns among members of the public, civil society groups and human rights advocates about the way the situation was being handled. Several observers said the arrest of the activists was troubling, particularly in a democracy where freedom of assembly is protected by law.
The matter subsequently went before the Kanifing Magistrate Court where 14 GALA members were granted bail. Supporters celebrated their release, which they said was a historic moment for civic participation and public activism in the country.
GALA, which launched in 2025, drew attention for its calls for greater transparency and accountability over assets tied to ex-President Yahya Jammeh.
