PDOIS Advocates for Diplomatic Resolution of the Bulock Border Dispute with Senegal  

By JarranewsTV Staff Reporter  

The People’s Democratic Organization for Independence and Socialism (PDOIS) has urged the governments of The Gambia and Senegal to promptly seek a peaceful resolution to the ongoing territorial disagreement at Bulock in Foni Berefet, cautioning that neglecting this issue might exacerbate tensions between the two neighboring nations.  

In a press release dated July 18, 2026, the opposition party expressed apprehension concerning reports indicating that segments of the perimeter fence surrounding the Gambia Armed Forces’ military installation in Bulock had been dismantled by elements of the Senegalese Armed Forces. According to accounts referenced by PDOIS, Senegalese officials asserted that the contested region is located within Senegal’s territory.  

The Need for Sustainable Solutions to Border Conflicts

PDOIS highlighted that unresolved colonial-era boundary issues continue to provoke disputes across the African continent and emphasized that enduring peace and unity among African nations hinge on the amicable resolution of such conflicts. The organization argued that it is essential for both The Gambia and Senegal to delineate and confirm their international borders clearly, asserting that ambiguity regarding territorial ownership complicates border protection efforts for either state.  

Upholding Territorial Integrity

While reiterating the necessity to safeguard The Gambia’s territorial integrity, PDOIS asserted that any territorial claims made by a neighboring nation should be adjudicated based on historical documentation, legal frameworks, and bilateral agreements, rather than unilateral strategies. The party stressed the urgency for both governments to engage in collaborative field assessments and formal boundary demarcation activities to precisely ascertain the geographical location of the international border.  

Condemnation of Coercive Measures

PDOIS denounced the employment of intimidation or coercion in resolving border disputes, contending that such strategies may escalate tensions and potentially incite armed conflicts. The organization instead called upon both nations to adopt the Pan-African principles of solidarity, cooperation, and peaceful coexistence in addressing their differences.  

**Proposal for a Joint Boundary Commission**  

The party endorsed the ongoing initiatives to reference historical documentation and consult with local elders knowledgeable about the contested areas. However, it emphasized that these consultations should occur under the auspices of a transparent Joint Boundary Commission, operating with well-defined timelines, parliamentary oversight, and regular public disclosures. PDOIS also recommended that this commission leverage contemporary technology, including satellite imagery, alongside archaeological and historical analyses to accurately identify boundary markers.  

Arbitration as a Means of Last Resort

In the event that bilateral discussions prove unsuccessful, PDOIS proposed that both governments present the matter to an independent international arbitration body, such as the International Court of Justice or the African Court of Justice in Arusha, Tanzania, with both parties agreeing in advance to adhere to any binding verdict. The organization further advocated for the engagement of respected traditional peace practitioners, Pan-African leaders, and distinguished statesmen to assist in alleviating tensions and promoting dialogue.  

An Appeal to Government

PDOIS called upon the Gambian Government to manage the Bulock dispute, as well as all other outstanding border issues with Senegal, in a transparent manner that involves the National Assembly and the Gambian populace. The party concluded by urging both governments to establish a permanent joint technical commission tasked with the physical demarcation of the entire Gambia-Senegal border, positing that a comprehensive resolution would facilitate the avoidance of future conflicts and reinforce the historical, cultural, and social connections that have long existed between the peoples of both countries.  

This statement was issued by Suwaibou Touray, Secretary General of the People’s Democratic Organization for Independence and Socialism (PDOIS).