Sukai Dahaba who was one of the leaders of the Gambian ‘Kalama revolution’ has died. 

Dahaba, a politician and member of the opposition United Democratic Party, 

was known for her resolute stance against the Jammeh dictatorship. 

She was among hundreds of UDP supporters including Solo Sandeng who were arrested and tortured in 2016 for protesting for election reforms. 

She became a national hero for her role in the protest that became known as the ‘Kalama revolution’, and that eventually brought an end to the Jammeh dictatorship in a shock election defeat in December 2016. 

Dahaba will be missed for her unique brand of activism which included the use of calabash which she was literally named after in the Mandinka tongue as ‘Kalama’.

Momodou Sabally, campaign manager for United Democratic Party, described the late Sukai Dahaba as “a kind caring and compassionate woman. 

“She was also a staunch supporter and loyal advocate of the UDP. Rest well my good sister Sukai Dahaba . May Allah forgive you and grant you the highest place in Jannah,” he said. 

Journalist Fatu Camara also expressed her deepest sympathy to family of the deceased while describing her as a woman who stood up for her country when it was needed the most. 

She said: “Thank you Sukai for everything you did for Gambia. Rest in peace.”

“Thank you Sukai Dahaba for standing up to a tyrant when it took bravery and required sacrifice to do so. You answered the call and helped end oppression. May Allah reward you with the highest Jannah. You will be remembered as a patriot,” Natta Mass said.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba