Jammeh’s return deal causes ripples in Gambia’s ruling party

The imminent return of former Gambian strongman, Yahya Jammeh, is dividing the public in the smallest country within mainland Africa.

Jammeh, who was forced into exile in Equatorial Guinea in 2017, might return under an ‘amnesty’ arrangement in a coalition deal reached between the ruling National People’s Party (NPP) and the opposition Alliance for Patriotic Reorientation and Construction (APRC).

The coalition deal that was announced by President Adama Barrow effectively signalled a ‘handshake’ moment in the Gambia, bringing erstwhile rivals into new cooperation.

However, the developments have caused ripples within Mr Barrows’ setup. His top advisor for strategic communications Fatou Jaw Manneh quit her job in the wake of the announcement. Ms Manneh had lived in exile during Jammeh’s rule for fear of persecution for her activism.

Mr Jammeh, who was known by many titles including Dr, Prof, Sheikh and al-Haj, left behind a trail of atrocities that may now go unpunished.

Since President Barrow, who defeated Jammeh before the latter fled the country, announced the deal, there has been both celebration and uproar. Human rights campaigners say it amounts to betrayal of the victims of Jammeh’s 22-year rule.