A Gambian political activist Bakou Jaw Jariso, has been charged with “incitement to violence” by the Gambian police.
Jariso was summoned by the police over allegations that he insulted Ousainou Darboe, leader of the opposition United Democratic Party (UDP), in a WhatsApp audio recording that has been circulating in the country. He voluntarily reported to the police headquarters in Banjul on March 11, 2025, following the summons.
He was cautioned, charged, detained, and later granted bail, according to a statement from the Gambia Police Force.
Media reports describe Jariso as a known sympathiser of the ruling National People’s Party (NPP) who frequently publishes content aligned with government narratives. He reportedly admitted to sharing the audio in a WhatsApp group named “Amadou Sankareh Safe Lives,” and claimed the recording was a retaliatory response to alleged insults against President Adama Barrow by supporters of Lawyer Darboe.
The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) calls on the Gambian Police to be fair and objective in their investigations and to ensure that due process is followed. This is essential to address concerns that the charge against Jariso may be politically motivated.
