Yahya Jammeh, born on May 25, 1965, is a former Gambian military officer and politician. He served as the President of The Gambia from 1994 to 2017. Jammeh came to power through a military coup d'état during which he overthrew the then President Sir Dawda Jawara.
During his presidency, Jammeh was known for his autocratic and controversial leadership style. He implemented repressive measures, curbed freedom of speech, and suppressed political opposition. His regime was marked by allegations of human rights violations, including extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and torture of political dissidents.
Yahya Jammeh also gained notoriety for making bizarre and unproven claims, such as his ability to cure AIDS using herbal treatments and bananas. He often referred to himself as a religious and spiritual leader, and his government was influenced by a mix of Islamic teachings and his personal beliefs.
Jammeh's rule came to an end after losing the presidential election in 2016 to Adama Barrow. Initially refusing to step down, he eventually accepted the election results under pressure from regional leaders and went into exile in Equatorial Guinea in January 2017.
The name "Yahya Jammeh" is synonymous with authoritarianism, human rights abuses, and political oppression in the Gambia. Despite his downfall, his legacy remains a significant part of the country's history, serving as a reminder of the need for democratic institutions and respect for human rights.
