Tears were shed as thousands of Gambians paid their last respect to the former president Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara who was laid to rest on Thursday at the National Assembly complex.

Thousands of mourners thronged the streets to watch the funeral procession while hundreds more filled the National Assembly complex.

Tribute were paid by dignitaries including President Adama Barrow, senior government officials and former ministers in the Jawara regime.

A delegation from Senegal led by the Defence minister, Sidiki Kabbah also paid their respect.

According to many of the mourners the legacy of Jawara will be remembered forever.

Banka Manneh, a civic society leader and activist said:

“All the speakers, including the President, did extremely well – I had goosebumps. What a rare show of unity in our country. Sir Dawda, even in death, managed to bring our country together.”

Salieu Taal, a lawyer and head of The Gambia Bar Association said:

“Today, Gambia mourns a legend, a father of our nation who truly sowed the seeds of a genuine democratic culture in The Gambia. I hope our leaders will learn from his life. One trait that stood out was his humility. He never boasted about any of his achievements.”

Felix Blain, a student, said

“National treasure you are Mr President Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara. Gambia is lucky to have you as president you will forever be missed.”

Abdoulie Jallow, a writer and commentator, said “Power, status and wealth will fade away but the beautiful virtues of genuine love, humility, compassion and integrity will forever be a sweet song in the hearts of humanity and such is the character of Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara, the father of the nation.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.”

The Gambia’s first president,Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara, was laid to rest at the National Assembly Complex in Banjul after a State Funeral with full military honours. He was honoured with a 21 gun salute by The Gambia Armed Forces.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba