By Adama Makasuba
The Gambia Refugees Association Europe Branch has called on its members not to take part in a planned protest in the country.
Kalifa Suwareh, a senior member of the group said: “The Gambia Refugees Association Europe Branch wishes to inform its members and the general public that it has confirmed information from the Director of Diaspora and Migration at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Musa Camara, that there is no deportation going on at the moment, despite the rumours being spread around on social media.”
“Mr. Camara has further clarified that there is a request from Germany to deport a few Gambians whose asylum cases were rejected but the Gambia government has not yet agreed to this request. He said they are trying to review the EU Good Practice document, to enhance it to the benefit of both the EU and The Gambia. Mr. Camara also urged Gambian asylum seekers to keep calm, focus on their work and avoid the misinformation going around on social media,” he added.
“Additionally, the GRA Europe Branch has gathered information about a particular group of individuals who are planning to organize a demonstration against deportation in the Gambia on Friday. However, we wish to clarify that the GRA Europe Branch is NOT organizing any demonstration for now and is not part of the said planned demonstration. Our Executives are working very hard to dialogue, engage and make consultations with government officials who are responsible for Migration and Deportation issues, and hopefully, a meeting will be scheduled soon to discuss urgent matters.
“We, therefore, call on all our members and supporters not to be part of any demonstration in whatever form until further notice. We are working very hard to get results and we should not be distracted by anyone or group. Equally, we urge Executive members of GRA Europe not to join any such demonstration. Whosoever takes part in such without approval from the association, the person(s) will be reprimanded accordingly,” he continued.