The former Argos security guard clinging to power in Gambia

However, time is running out for him to bring the situation under control before December, when he stands for a controversial third term.

Ryan Cummings, director of Signal Risk, a South Africa-based risk analysis company, said Gambia was undergoing one of its “most significant outbreaks of civic unrest in recent years”.

Mr Barrow’s political opponents have begun to capitalise on the unrest, with Modou Lamin Bah, a senior figure in the opposition United Democratic Party, joining protests.

Mr Cummings told The Telegraph: “Bah’s involvement immediately saw participants shift their slogans from calling for improved service delivery to direct calls for Barrow to step down.

“Although limited in scope, the incident did underscore the willingness of the political opposition to use grievances harboured by the Gambian populace against Barrow.

“This is at a time when political tensions are already elevated ahead of the country’s December 2026 presidential elections, in which the incumbent will be seeking an effective third term in office.

“Opposition participation in these protests will make them more organised and widespread, and entrench their anti-government undertone.

“This could prompt a firmer and potentially more forcible response by state security forces.”