The Coalition of Progressive Gambians (CoPG) wishes to inform the public that our engagements with the Ministry of Trade (involving three of their staff) and the Ministry of Justice (mediated by the Supreme Islamic Council and the Peace Network) were entered into in good faith. At that time, we postponed our protest and agreed to dialogue based on assurances that our 9-Point Demands would be implemented.
The government has since betrayed our trust. They distanced themselves not only from us but also from the mediators who facilitated the process. Instead of honouring their word, they resorted to the politics of deception. During this time, CoPG and its leaders were accused of compromise, bribery, and personal gain—accusations that were baseless and intended only to discredit our struggle for justice.
We issue this clear warning: Gambians must never again fall into the trap of believing government promises designed only to delay and silence the people. This regime has perfected the tactic of “smooth promises” while deliberately dragging time until the public forgets. Such conduct is dishonourable, deceptive, and completely at odds with the principles of a democratic government.
If the government wishes to reduce tension and minimise protest, it must immediately reconsider and implement our 9-Point Demands. These demands reflect the frustrations of every Gambian citizen who has been betrayed by empty speeches, wasted commissions, endless committees, and false press conferences designed only to suppress dissent.
Taxpayer funds have been squandered on inquiries that yield nothing because this government politicises everything and implements nothing. Gambians are tired of the betrayal. The only language this administration understands is the unified demands of its people.
Let it be clear: if the government continues to ignore the will of the people, Gambians will answer at the ballot box in the next election, by voting out this incompetence, corruption, and deception.
CoPG 9-Point Demands
1. Immediate adoption of the 2020 People’s Draft Constitution.
2. Establishment of an Independent Anti-Corruption Commission with full powers.
3. Reform of electoral laws to ensure fairness, transparency, and inclusivity.
4. Reduction of taxes on essential goods to ease the burden on citizens.
5. Security sector reform to guarantee professionalism and accountability.
6. Implementation of genuine youth empowerment policies and job creation programs.
7. Protection of land and property rights to end corruption and exploitation in land allocation.
8. Full accountability for public funds, including all loans and grants received by government.
9. Respect for civil liberties and human rights, including the right to protest without intimidation.
The CoPG will no longer be silenced. The Gambian people demand justice, accountability, and true democracy-not deception and betrayal.
Issued by:
Coalition of Progressive Gambians (CoPG)
Kololi, Gambia
