Yahya Jammeh

Yahya Abdul-Azziz Jemus Junkung Jammeh (born 1965) is a Gambian former military officer who ruled Gambia as President from 1994 to 2017. He initially came to power through a military coup that he claimed was intended to reform the government and combat corruption. During his 22-year rule, Jammeh's government became increasingly authoritarian, characterized by widespread human rights violations, extrajudicial killings, torture, and severe restrictions on press freedom and political opposition. Despite these serious allegations, he maintained power through control of the military and security apparatus. His regime faced international criticism and calls for accountability. Following his defeat in the 2016 presidential election, Jammeh initially refused to step down but eventually went into exile in Equatorial Guinea. He has since faced investigations and arrest warrants from international human rights organizations and the Gambian government for crimes against humanity and other serious offenses committed during his administration.