Gambia's National Assembly Engages in Heated Debate Over Yahya Jammeh's 'Threat to Security'

Lawmaker Declares Jammeh a National Security Threat

A contentious debate unfolded in The Gambia's National Assembly on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, and Thursday, November 20, 2025, after Hon. Sainey Jawara, the representative for Lower Saloum constituency, asserted that former President Yahya Jammeh poses a threat to national security. Jawara's declaration came in response to recent statements made by Jammeh via a WhatsApp audio message on October 26, 2025, where the exiled former leader hinted at a potential return to the country.

During the parliamentary session, Jawara emphasized that Jammeh's pronouncements were 'provocative' and 'deeply insensitive' to the victims of his 22-year rule, which was characterized by widespread human rights abuses. He cited findings from the Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparations Commission (TRRC), which documented at least 240 killings and recommended Jammeh's prosecution for crimes including murder, unlawful killings, rape, and torture.

Divisive Reactions Among Representatives

Jawara's remarks ignited a sharp political clash, revealing deep-seated divisions within the Assembly and Gambian society regarding Jammeh's legacy and the country's reconciliation efforts.

• Hon. Almamy Gibba, representing Foni Kansala, strongly challenged Jawara's position, questioning why Jammeh was now considered a danger when many who served closely under him currently hold high positions in the legislature. Gibba pointed to past events, such as the warm reception of Gambians involved in the 2014 attempted coup, and President Adama Barrow's previous remarks likening Jammeh's APRC party to his 'wife,' suggesting a complex political relationship.
• Deputy Speaker Seedy Njie intervened to restore order, urging Gibba to refrain from insinuations about the Speaker or Deputy Speaker.
• Hon. Assan Touray of Bakau Constituency expressed respect for Jammeh and stated he would welcome his return if channeled through diplomatic means.
• Hon. Sheriff Sarr of Jeshwang argued that any return must first address past grievances and ensure justice for victims. 'Jammeh's coming should be a blessing to the country. What do the victims want? They want justice,' Sarr stated.
• Other lawmakers, including Hon. Musa Badjie (Tallinding Kunjang) and Hon. Alagie S. Darboe (Brikama North), downplayed the security threat, suggesting the concerns were more political than security-related.
• Hon. Samba Jallow of Niamina Dankunku suggested Jammeh should use diplomatic channels for any return.
• Hon. Alhagie Mbow of Upper Saloum supported Jawara's call for a firm government response and highlighted Section 69(3) of the 1997 Constitution, which allows for the prosecution of a former president for crimes against humanity with a two-thirds parliamentary resolution.

Jammeh's Continued Influence from Exile

Despite being in exile in Equatorial Guinea since January 2017 after refusing to concede defeat in the 2016 presidential election, Yahya Jammeh continues to exert significant influence on Gambian politics. His 22-year rule was marked by authoritarianism and severe human rights violations. The ongoing debate underscores the country's struggle to reconcile its past with its present democratic aspirations and to address the recommendations of the TRRC.