The leader of The Alliance for National Reconciliation and Development [ANRD] Babacarr Jobe, has strongly condemned violent protests over the electricity crisis, urging Gambians to channel frustration through peaceful dialogue instead of vandalism and destruction.
Jobe’s statement comes days after demonstrations in parts of the country turned into roadblocks, tire burning, and attacks on public infrastructure as anger over Nawec’s prolonged blackouts boiled over.
Jobe said he understands the hardship caused by power cuts, but warned that violence will only worsen the problem.
“We need peace. So all our frustrations should be channeled through a peaceful way, not vandalising public institutions, burning of tires or otherwise. Let’s always try to engage the government through peaceful dialogue,” he said.
He called on citizens to “stay calm and wait,” arguing that the government has heard the public outcry.
“Government has listened and understood their frustration and very soon it will be well taken care of and will be a thing of the past,” the ANRD leader said.
Jobe positioned ANRD as a voice of restraint, saying The Gambia cannot afford to solve one crisis by creating another.