Gambia protesters burn tyres to denounce power cuts
BANJUL, Sept 8 (Reuters) - Police used tear gas to disperse protesters who gathered overnight in multiple locations in Gambia, including near President Adama Barrow's official residence, to denounce what they described as prolonged power cuts, residents and a Reuters witness said.
Protesters in Gambia set tires ablaze and erected barricades in a demonstration against prolonged power outages, according to a Reuters witness. The unrest occurred overnight in various locations, including near President Adama Barrow's residence in the capital Banjul. Some residents reported blackouts lasting up to 48 hours, a situation that comes ahead of the December presidential election in which Barrow is seeking a third term.
In a televised address, Barrow attributed the power issues to record electricity demand and declining hydropower production due to seasonal conditions. He promised that new generators would be installed, aiming to restore electricity by the end of October. Gambia's Information Minister, Ismaila Ceesay, apologized for the power cuts and described the events as "deeply disconcerting."
Protesters in the town of Farato targeted the residence of Vice President Mohammed B.S. Jallow, destroying banners at his office. Police responded with tear gas to disperse the crowds. The government acknowledged the frustration and promised to improve electricity reliability as soon as possible.
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