By Alieu Ceesay, Photography by Momodou Gagigo
In a stunning development, former Gambian President Yahya Jammeh announced his return to The Gambia in November 2025, sparking fervor among his supporters and intensifying political tensions nationwide. Speaking via a WhatsApp audio recording played to loyalists gathered in his home village of Kanilai on October 26, 2025, Jammeh, who has been in exile in Equatorial Guinea since 2017, confirmed arrangements for his homecoming after nearly a decade away. “Come November 2025, I am coming back home to The Gambia,” he announced, prompting wild cheers. The interim leader of his APRC party will soon disclose the exact date and flight details.
Jammeh, who ruled The Gambia from 1994 to 2016 after seizing power in a military coup, fled following his defeat in the 2016 presidential election to a coalition led by current President Adama Barrow. Initially rejecting the results, Jammeh’s refusal to step down drew international pressure, including from ECOWAS, which ultimately led to his exile.
In his address, he claimed that a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the coalition allowed him to return after six months to live as a citizen, a promise he alleges was broken, thereby extending his exile to nine years. “They pleaded with me to leave… I was prepared to go back to my farm,” Jammeh said, noting fears of his influence due to his massive support base and military ties.
“We are overjoyed to have our leader back,” says Fatou Badjie, a supporter of the APRC party. “His return brings hope and renewed spirit to our community. We’re excited to see what the future holds under his leadership once again.
Sohna Sanneh, a resident of Kaninlai, also echoes similar sentiments, highlighting the country’s struggles with violence, economic hardship, and limited access to education due to high tuition fees, which make it challenging for parents to send their children to school.
“Kanilai is more than just a political hub,” says Kemo Jarju, a village elder.
“It’s a treasure trove of cultural heritage and history. Our town has been blessed with the presence of former President Yahya Jammeh, who has brought life and vitality to our community. But beyond politics, Kanilai is rich in tradition and cultural diversity. We have a rich history that spans centuries, and our people take pride in their roots. From our vibrant festivals to our sacred historical sites, Kanilai is a place where culture and magic come alive.”
His 22-year regime faced accusations of corruption, mismanagement, and human rights abuses, with critics labeling it a dictatorship marked by forced disappearances. Despite this, Jammeh retains a loyal following, as evidenced by the jubilant response in Kanilai. Since his departure, he has maintained influence over the APRC through WhatsApp calls, even authorizing leadership changes. However, the party’s recognized leader, Fabakary Tombo Jatta, has aligned with Barrow’s government, complicating Jammeh’s political maneuvers.
The announcement has polarized The Gambia, with supporters rallying for his return while others brace for potential unrest. As November 2025 approaches, the nation watches closely, anticipating whether Jammeh’s homecoming will reshape the political landscape or reignite old tensions.
