Gambia experienced military coup d'état that ended the long-standing Jawara era

In July 1994, The Gambia experienced a significant political shift with a bloodless military coup d'état that ended the long-standing Jawara era. The coup was orchestrated by the Armed Forces Provisional Ruling Council (AFPRC), under the leadership of Yahya Jammeh. Following the coup, the AFPRC ruled with an iron fist for two years, suspending the constitution and banning all political parties, which effectively stifled democratic processes in the country. A dusk-to-dawn curfew was imposed, restricting the freedoms of the Gambian populace. In 1996, a transition back to democracy was initiated, culminating in the drafting of a new constitution. However, the process was marred by manipulation to favor Jammeh's political ambitions. A referendum held in 1996 saw approximately 70% of voters approving the new constitution, leading to Jammeh's election as president later that year. Despite the return to a semblance of democracy, the political landscape remained heavily skewed, with all but the People's Democratic Organisation for Independence and Socialism (PDOIS) being banned, and former ministers barred from holding public office. This period marked a critical juncture in Gambian history, setting the stage for future political developments. #mooflife #mof #MomentOfLife #Gambia #YahyaJammeh #1994Coup #Afprc #GambianPolitics