Folks, I just received a call from a friend this evening that a friend of mine, Lawyer Abdoulaye Swareh of Maryland is under custody in The Gambia.  I spoke with him moments ago and his spirit is high.  The circumstances surrounding his arrest began when he got news that one of his cousins in Swareh Kunda was arrested by the authorities.  Abdoulaye then left Banjul for Swareh Kunda to bail his cousin and in an exchange with the Commissioner, the Commissioner called the police for his arrest.  He indicated that all he told the commissioner was that they (those running the country) need to stop the things they are doing to the people.  That was all it took to set the Commissioner off.  An uncle of Abdoulaye intervened and the police left, only to come back later, around 9:00pm and arrested him.  If the Lers recalled, about a month ago, Abdoulaye posted an urgent message to help secure the release of some 20 people from Swareh Kunda that were held by the authorities.  This is where things stand as I write.  This message is a bit disjointed but please bear with me.  I will keep you'll posted upon further developments.  Meanwhile, lets hope the authorities don't do something stupid.

 

Chi Jaama

 

Joe Sambou