Gambia: Death of Ebrima Solo Sandeng must be investigated and protesters released
| Publisher | Article 19 |
| Publication Date | 18 April 2016 |
| Cite as | Article 19, Gambia: Death of Ebrima Solo Sandeng must be investigated and protesters released, 18 April 2016, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5724c8b44.html [accessed 19 May 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
Following the violent crackdown and arrest of several protesters who were calling for electoral reforms on April 14 2016, ARTICLE 19 has learned from local sources of the death in custody of Ebrima Solo Sandeng, the National Organizing Secretary of the opposition United Democratic Party (UDP).
The leader was arrested during the demonstration with other UDP party activists including Fatoumata Jawara, who was severely beaten, Nokoi Njie, Falang Sonko, Faa Gitteh Fatou Camara, Modou Ngum.
"We are shocked by the death of Ebrima Solo Sandeng and call for a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death. We urge the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights, currently holding its 58th session in Gambia, to urgently take appropriate action" commented Fatou Jagne Senghor, Director of ARTICLE 19 West Africa.
In addition, Ousainu Darboe, the UDP leader, and several members of his party were arrested 16 April 2016 following a march demanding justice for Sandeng and the release of detained protesters.
"We demand the immediate release of all demonstrators detained since 14 April and the end to arbitrary arrests," concluded Fatou Jagne Senghor.
