By Haddy Touray
The National Democratic Party (NDP) has welcomed the release on bail of Muhammed Rainey, one of its supporters, after he spent about two days in custody of the Serious Crime Unit of the Gambia Police Force.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the party said Rainey had cooperated with police after reportedly being invited for questioning while meeting with investigators.
According to the NDP, police officers accompanied Rainey to his residence, where they conducted a search of his home and surrounding premises. The party claimed that no suspicious items or incriminating materials were found and that, at the time of his release, no formal charges had been filed against him.
The NDP said Rainey was initially detained over allegations of possessing counterfeit currency but stressed that allegations alone do not constitute proof of guilt.
“Every person is entitled to the constitutional presumption of innocence until proven guilty by a competent court of law,” the statement said.
The party also said some of its supporters believed the arrest may have been linked to Rainey’s association with its leader, Kebba Madi Bojang, but urged that any such concerns be addressed through lawful and transparent processes rather than speculation.
The NDP called on law enforcement agencies to carry out their duties impartially, professionally and in accordance with the law, arguing that public confidence in the justice system depends on equal treatment and respect for the constitutional rights of all citizens.
The party commended Rainey for cooperating with the authorities and urged Gambians to remain peaceful, law-abiding and respectful of due process.
The statement reaffirmed the NDP’s commitment to justice, democracy, the rule of law and the protection of the constitutional rights and freedoms of Gambians.