𝐆𝐮𝐧𝐣𝐮𝐫–𝐁𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐋𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐩𝐮𝐭𝐞: 𝐀 𝐓𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐁𝐨𝐦𝐛

𝐆𝐮𝐧𝐣𝐮𝐫–𝐁𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐋𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐩𝐮𝐭𝐞: 𝐀 𝐓𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐁𝐨𝐦𝐛

By Lamin Bojang | Edited by Lamin Jammeh

The long-standing land dispute between Gunjur and Berending has reached a deeply troubling and dangerous stage, raising serious concerns about the safety and stability of both communities.

On Sunday, 22nd March, disturbing news emerged of an attack that left Yaya Darboe injured, allegedly at the hands of some youths from Berending. This incident has reignited painful memories of past violence, including the fatal shooting of Buba Jammeh by Buba Drammeh, a tragic event rooted in the same unresolved land conflict involving families from Darboe Kunda, Jammeh Kunda, and Jatta Kunda in Gunjur.

Photo: Leg of Yaya Darboe of Gunjur who was allegedly attached and injured by youths from Berending at his farm

The latest incident comes at a critical time, following the establishment of a government task force mandated to investigate and demarcate the boundary between Gunjur and Berending. This initiative was intended to bring clarity and a lasting resolution to the dispute. However, recent developments suggest that tensions remain dangerously high.

Demarcation post by Government Taskforce between Gunjur and Berending

Government Taskforce on boarder demarcation exercise between Gunjur and Berending

Members of the Government Taskforce

This situation is no longer just a disagreement over land, it has evolved into a serious threat to human life and community peace.

Reports of continued attacks on residents of Gunjur have heightened frustration, particularly among the youth, who are now planning a demonstration to make their grievances known.

Community members have stressed their commitment to peace, stating:

“We want to make this very clear: we are peace-loving people. We do not target anyone, and we do not support violence in any form. But we cannot remain silent while our people are being harmed.”

Despite the government making its position known regarding rightful ownership, some individuals continue to take matters into their own hands, undermining the rule of law and risking further escalation.

There is now an urgent need for decisive action.

Authorities must move swiftly to ensure the protection of all affected communities and enforce the law without bias. At the same time, those engaging in unlawful acts must reconsider their actions - violence, intimidation, and retaliation will only deepen divisions and prolong suffering.

The path forward must be guided by truth, justice, and dialogue.

Let this be a moment for calm reflection and responsible leadership. The future of both Gunjur and Berending depends not on conflict, but on a shared commitment to peace, lawful resolution, and mutual respect.