By Adama Makasuba
Homeowners in Salaji have pledged to resist after the government demolished their homes, displacing numerous families. The government has defended its actions, asserting that the buildings were constructed illegally. Officials indicated that eviction notices were issued to the impacted homeowners, but none complied. However, the homeowners disputed these claims, labelling them “false” and “misleading.” They condemned the demolition as reckless and vowed to fight back.
Ebrima D. Jatta, whose sister’s property was destroyed, described the demolition as a “criminal act” and warned that they would strive to reclaim the disputed land for the victims. “We have nowhere else to go. In my view, this is a miscarriage of justice by the government against us, and they are discriminating against my people. We will never abandon this land, and we are prepared for anything. One day, we will take this land back,” he stated.
Jatta contended that Salaji was a horticultural garden established by their forefathers, who were farmers. “This land belongs to my ancestors, and we have no other place to settle or use as our horticultural garden. We have no means to feed our families because this is the land that our forefathers safeguarded for that very purpose,” he stated. “Let all of The Gambia know that we will never leave Salaji. The government should be cautious not to plunge this country into violence, as many communities face similar challenges,” he added.
Another resident, Bakary Manjang, was left in tears after his high-rise home was demolished, turning his holiday back home into a nightmare. Mr. Manjang rejected the claims of receiving an eviction notice, labeling it a “fake letter without a stamp.” “There was no sign or letterhead on that document,” he explained, noting that the demolition crew arrived with armed security officers. “They approached this area as if preparing for war rather than civilly engaging us. I swear by God’s name that no one will inhabit the land where my house once stood. We will pursue them wherever they go,” he declared. He also warned of unrest, stating, “If they don’t cease this, they will provoke a major problem because many people are angry, and that anger could escalate into chaos.”
Adama Nyabally, whose house was also torn down, denounced the act as “illegal and unjust,” stating, “We have our legal documents. This outrageous act fills us with sorrow.”
