By Kemo Kanyi
Political scientist Birane Gai has condemned the reported destruction of a Gambia Armed Forces (GAF) military camp in Bulock, Foni, by Senegalese forces, describing the action as disrespectful to The Gambia’s national sovereignty.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with The Voice, Gai said the incident represented a serious concern for the country, particularly in relation to the protection of its territorial integrity and independence.
“It is a disrespect to the sovereignty of The Gambia, a disrespect to the Republic of The Gambia for Senegal to have taken the actions that they have taken while the Gambia government literally or the Gambian Armed Forces literally does nothing,” he said.
Gai expressed disappointment over what he described as a lack of response from Gambian authorities, saying many citizens were understandably concerned about the situation.
The University of The Gambia lecturer argued that the incident reflected a broader pattern in which, in his view, The Gambia’s security relationship with Senegal has become increasingly unbalanced since the change of government.
He pointed to the presence of the ECOWAS Mission in The Gambia (ECOMIG), noting that Senegal contributes a significant number of troops to the mission and provides security support to the Gambian presidency.
According to Gai, such arrangements could create strategic advantages for Senegal in its relationship with The Gambia.
He said that, in his personal view, he would have preferred peacekeeping forces from other West African countries to participate in security operations in The Gambia rather than relying heavily on Senegalese forces, given what he described as Senegal’s significant interests and stakes in Gambian affairs.
The political scientist stressed that territorial disputes between neighboring countries should be handled through dialogue and established diplomatic mechanisms rather than unilateral actions.
“When there is a territorial dispute between two nations, it is not appropriate to unilaterally take a decision,” he said.
Gai argued that Senegal’s actions, as he interpreted them, demonstrated the imbalance of power between the two countries regarding disputed border areas, describing the situation as a “disrespectful position” towards The Gambia.
The comments follow reports of an incident in Foni that has sparked public debate over border security, sovereignty and the long-standing relationship between The Gambia and Senegal.
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