Political leaders in The Gambia and abroad have been reacting to the news that The Gambia’s first president and father of the nation Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara has died, aged 95.

The Gambian President Adama Barrow announced the death describing Jawara as a true statesman.

“It is with regret to hear news of the demise of former President, Sir Dawda K. Jawara, who died at the age of 95 as an elderly Statesman.

“His passing is indeed a great loss to the country in particular and humanity in general,” the president said.

Ousainou ANM Darboe, leader of the United Democratic Party (UDP) said

“Great loss to the world
Great loss to the continent
Great loss to The Gambia and the greatest loss to myself. Thank you for all the lessons. Till we meet again.”

Mama Kandeh, leader of The Gambia Democratic Congress, said

“I am saddened by demise of our late President Sir Dawda Jawara. My condolences, prayers & thoughts are with the family during this difficult time. Sir Dawda was a champion for humanity, who inspired me. Sad day & sad loss for Gambia. May Allah grant him Jannah, Rest in peace Sir.”

Ms Seraphine Wakana, UN Resident Coordinator, said

“On behalf of the UN family in The Gambia extends heartfelt condolences to H.E President Adama Barrow, and to all Gambians on the passing of former President Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara. RIP.”

Sharon Waddle, UK High Commissioner to the Gambia said

“Deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Sir Dawda K Jawara GCMG, first President of The Gambia. Thoughts and condolences with his family and the Gambian people. May his soul rest in peace.”

Ambassador Richard Carl Paschall, U.S ambassador to The Gambia, said

“On behalf of the American people and the United States Government, I offer our deepest condolences on the passing of the former Prime Minister and First President of the Republic of The Gambia, Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara.

“President Jawara steered The Gambia through the peaceful transition from Colonial rule to full independence and sovereignty in the community of nations. We honour the legacy and mourn his loss alongside his family and our friends, the people of The Gambia both here and abroad. May his soul rest in peace.”

Other Gambians including human rights activists, campaigners, opinion-makers have reacted to Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara’s death.

Fatou Jagne Senghore, a human rights activist based in Dakar said

“Remembering President Jawara of the Gambia for his role in promoting the Africa human rights system and positioning Gambia as the human rights Capital of Africa by hosting the African Commission on Human Rights”

Dr Ismaila Ceesay, a senior lecturer at the University of The Gambia said

“The news of the death of Sir Dawda Jawara is a shock to the nation. Kairaba was the quintessential statesman who served his country with distinction providing outstanding leadership to country & continent. I hope a National Day of mourning will be declared for this African giant.”

Dr Lamin Drammeh said

“I join all Gambians in mourning the passing of a statesman forerunner who led & represented The Gambia with integrity & humility. He leaves a legacy of peace, unity, progressivism, service that ensured generations of Gambians normalcy in a chaotic region. Thank you sir Dawda‪. RIP.”‬