By Ebrima Mbaye
Shock and profound grief swept across The Gambia on Monday as news spread of the stabbing death of Yunusa Mbaye, a respected University of The Gambia graduate assistant and former student leader, triggering widespread calls for justice and an outpouring of tributes from academics, politicians, and ordinary citizens who described him as one of the country’s brightest young minds.
Mbaye, a native of Bansang, was allegedly stabbed during an altercation on Monday evening, June 15, in Fajara. He was rushed to hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival, according to preliminary police reports. Authorities have arrested Mamadou Bah, a 33-year-old Guinean national, who remains in custody as investigations continue into the circumstances of the incident.
The killing of the former Vice President of the 22nd Executive Council of the University of The Gambia Students’ Union (UTGSU) has ignited public anger and mourning, with many viewing it as not just the loss of an individual but a blow to the nation’s future leadership.
Tributes have flooded in from across the country and the diaspora, painting a picture of a man defined by integrity, humility, and an unwavering commitment to service.
Former UTGSU President Muhammed Ngallan, who worked closely with Mbaye, described the loss as devastating. “Yunusa was the truest, most honest, straightforward and incorruptible person I have ever met,” Ngallan said. “A friend, brother and leader. One of the few I believed stood a chance in changing our country. The Gambia has lost a great soul.”
Ngallan recalled Mbaye’s infectious smile, late-night discussions, and dedication to student causes. “He was smart, hardworking, dedicated and visionary,” he added.
Nyaninka Manjang, Former UTG student leader and another close colleague from Mbaye’s student leadership days, echoed the sentiment. “Yunusa was more than a friend; he was a dedicated companion, a dependable colleague, and a brother whose kindness, humility, and commitment touched the lives of many,” Manjang stated.
He highlighted Mbaye’s rare qualities: admitting mistakes openly and seeking forgiveness, his deep devotion to faith, and secret acts of generosity. “During policy discussions, he would hide to read the Quran, and support others financially without fanfare,” Manjang recalled.
Foday M. Sillah, who knew Mbaye for 16 years, from their school days in Bansang to later as fellow teachers in Sandu and as UTGSU colleagues, said the death felt personal. “He was a steadfast pillar and a great comrade,” Sillah said. “Precise in setting the tone and speaking truth when needed. No one was humbler in admitting mistakes.” Sillah noted Mbaye’s broader regional engagement, including links to student unions in Liberia, and his recent dreams of postgraduate studies that were tragically cut short.
Students and faculty at the University of The Gambia also expressed heartbreak. Fakebba John Manjang remembered Mbaye as a brilliant scholar passionate about history and philosophy, particularly the Ottoman Empire. “He was an activist to the core,” Manjang said. Student Suna Jarju called him a vital support system: “He would call me ‘My smartest Gal’,” she recalled fondly.
Childhood friend Ousman Jarra from Bansang was left speechless: “My childhood friend is killed. This one again hit hard.” Sarjo Jassey, another close friend, said Mbaye’s impact would endure: “Though you are gone, your friendship and the impact you made will always remain in my heart. The university will remember you forever, and history will never forget you.”
The incident has sparked broader conversations about safety in urban areas and the vulnerability of young professionals. Many Gambians are demanding swift justice and a thorough investigation to ensure accountability.
Yunusa Mbaye’s journey from student activist to educator embodied hope for a new generation. As Vice President of UTGSU, he championed fairness, truth, and the advancement of fellow students. Colleagues say his humility and vision set him apart in a political landscape often marred by division.
As the legal process unfolds, the collective message from those who knew him remains clear: a teacher, leader, and visionary has fallen, but his values of honesty, service, and compassion will inspire others.
Family, friends, and the wider academic community are preparing to lay him to rest, even as grief mixes with anger over his untimely death.
