By: Nyima Sillah
The Office of the Inspector General of Police (IGP) has refused to issue a permit for a planned march intended to show solidarity with Lawyer Ousainou Darboe over President Barrow’s death remarks against the veteran politician.
A group, referring to itself as We Are Concerned, wrote to the IGP earlier this month, requesting a police permit to enable them to stage a solidarity march.
The group said Mr. Barrow’s failure to explain, apologize, and withdraw his statement against Darboe has compelled it to plan a solidarity march.
The We Are Concerned group sought permission fromthe IGP to peacefully march from Westfield Monument to the UDP leader’s Pipeline home to show itssolidarity and express concern about Mr. Darboe’s life.They intended to deliver petitions to the Ministry of theInterior and the IEC.
“We will also deliver a petition to both the Interior Ministry and the Independent Electoral Commission,regarding President Adama Barrow’s alleged oath to remain President until Mr. Darboe’s death,” the group said in their request for a permit.
However, in response to the letter, the Office of the IGP said the request cannot be approved at the moment based on national security concerns, including individuals with ulterior motives taking advantage of the protest to commit crimes.
“This Office will strongly encourage your collaboration and support to safeguard the peace and security of the nation,” said the IGP’s office.
