The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has announced with deep sorrow the passing of its former National President and veteran statesman, Honourable Alhagie Yaya Ceesay, describing him as a “towering figure in the country’s political history” and a loyal son of the soil.

In a press statement, the party said Hon. Ceesay belonged to a generation of early patriots who stood alongside the founding leaders of the PPP in the formative years of The Gambia’s political development.

“He was part of a rare generation of patriots,, young, courageous, and resolute,who stood shoulder to shoulder with the founding fathers of our nation,” the statement read.

According to the PPP, Hon. Ceesay’s political journey was defined by service rather than ambition, noting that he devoted his life to public service, nation-building, and party loyalty.

The party highlighted his service in government during the First Republic under President Dawda Jawara, where he served as State Minister and later as Minister for Local Government and Lands.

“He rose through the ranks to become a respected State Minister and later served with distinction as Minister for Local Government and Lands, contributing meaningfully to nation-building,” the statement added.

The PPP further recalled his resilience following the 1994 military takeover, saying he remained loyal to the party during a difficult political period.

“At a time when it was easier to retreat, he chose to stand firm with the PPP, helping to preserve its identity and values,” the statement noted.

Hon. Ceesay later served as National President of the PPP from 2001 to 2018, a position the party said he held with “honour, dignity, and humility,” before voluntarily stepping down to allow for generational renewal.

Describing him as “more than a politician,” the PPP said he was an institution in his own right who mentored many within the party and across the political landscape.

The party said The Gambia has lost a statesman, the PPP has lost a guiding light, and many have lost a father figure and mentor.

The PPP extended condolences to his family, including his son Momodou Ceesay, party members, and the wider political community, praying for Allah to grant him eternal peace.

“May his soul rest in perfect peace,” the statement concluded.

By Adama Makasuba