Gambia bans protests without permits after unrest over power cuts

Gambia's police chief has announced a ban on protests without permits following weeks of unrest over frequent power cuts, particularly during the hot months. The protests, which took place over multiple nights, expressed growing dissatisfaction with President Adama Barrow as the December elections approached. Inspector General of Police Seedy Mukhtar Touray issued a statement on Thursday, stating that "no one is allowed to protest without an approved permit."

Any violations of this rule would be dealt with using "necessary force." During the recent unrest, a police station was damaged, and detainees were unlawfully released, while the National Water and Electricity Company Ltd (NAWEC) reported that three of its branches were closed due to severe attacks that caused damage to buildings, infrastructure, and office equipment.

Eleven individuals have been arrested in connection with vandalism during the protests, according to Touray.