When the government of the First Republic was unconstitutionally overthrown in a military coup in 1994, Yahya Jammeh, then a young officer, claimed he wanted to end self-perpetuating rule and criticized what he called the extravagant lifestyle of the previous regime. However, in an ironic twist, he amended the constitution to remove term limits without consulting the people, allowing himself to remain in power for twenty years.
Gambian politician, activist, and social reformer
Isatou Touray (born 17 March 1955) is a Gambian politician, activist, and social reformer. A noted campaigner against female genital mutilation (FGM), she became the first female Gambian presidential candidate in 2016, before dropping out to endorse Adama Barrow and Coalition 2016. She then served in Barrow's cabinet, as trade minister, and then as health minister. On 15 March 2019, Touray became Vice-President of The Gambia, replacing her predecessor, Ousainou Darboe in a major cabinet reshuffle.
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If elected, I will restore the sovereignty of the people, end impunity, and decentralize power and authority. I am committed to serving only one term, during which I will collaborate with all political parties and Gambians who are ready and willing to guide the country in a direction that addresses the needs and aspirations of the people.
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I did not pull out of the coalition; what actually happened is that I was sidelined. I joined with the intention of working in unity to achieve the common goal of bringing change to The Gambia—so that we could build a young generation ready to take on leadership and responsibility in the future, while creating an environment that enables the people to thrive.
I want us to create a Gambia that embraces the hearts and minds of all Gambians in the Diaspora, including those who left due to the hardships, persecution, fear, and abuses they experienced as private citizens, entrepreneurs, academics, politicians, and artists. More than anything, I envision a new Gambia marked by economic prosperity, freedom, the rule of law, peace, and stability.
The human rights framework will remain central to our approach as we work to restore the dignity and integrity of all Gambians and those who choose to live in The Gambia. We are committed to democracy and good governance as we tackle the emerging challenges facing the state, ensuring that The Gambia takes its rightful place in the world.
Twenty years of APRC rule has deprived them of opportunities to fulfill their aspirations and achieve their goals. The jobs, quality education, healthcare, and decent living their country failed to provide have driven many to risk everything by crossing the treacherous Mediterranean, where tragically, many lose their lives.